Trump signals readiness for action
The United States has warned Iran that military intervention remains on the table if authorities continue using deadly force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is prepared to act decisively, emphasizing that “all options are on the table” to stop the ongoing bloodshed. While the threat remains, Trump also hinted at a potential easing, suggesting that the violence may be tapering.
Tehran denies accusations, blames the US
Iran pushed back forcefully during the Security Council session. Deputy UN Ambassador Hossein Darzi accused the United States of fomenting unrest under the pretense of supporting human rights. He claimed Washington is using a “humanitarian” narrative to justify potential political interference and military action, portraying itself as an ally of the Iranian people while actively seeking to destabilize the country.
Protests suppressed, death toll rises
Across Iran, demonstrations appear to be slowing under a heavy security presence and ongoing communication blackout. Eyewitnesses in Tehran report quieter streets, with no bonfires or debris from previous nights and a noticeable drop in gunfire. The crackdown has already killed at least 2,677 people, according to US-based rights groups, making it the deadliest wave of protests since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Some sources inside Iran estimate the true toll could be as high as 15,000 over the past three weeks.
In response, Washington announced new sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of orchestrating the violence, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security. The G7 and the European Union are also considering additional measures, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen saying Europe aims to increase pressure to force meaningful political change in Tehran.
