The White House has issued a stark warning to Iran, stating “all options remain on the table” regarding military action if the brutal crackdown on anti-government protesters continues. Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that Iran faces “grave consequences” should the killings persist, even claiming 800 scheduled executions were recently halted (a claim without immediate evidence).
This tough talk comes after days of escalating tensions. Initially, President Trump threatened military action, but later softened his stance, indicating he received assurances that the killings had stopped. Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also denied any plans for protester executions, stating, “Hanging is out of the question.” However, Araghchi previously declared Iran ready for war if the US “tests” its military option.
Thousands of Iranians have taken to the streets since late December, fueled by economic hardship. Activist groups report over 1,000 protester deaths, while the Iranian government claims more than 100 security officers have been killed, blaming the unrest on “armed rioters backed by the US and Israel.” Independent verification of these figures is difficult, compounded by a week-long nationwide internet blackout.
Residents in Tehran describe heavy military presence and widespread uncertainty, fear, and sadness. Despite Trump’s tempered rhetoric, Washington simultaneously imposed fresh sanctions on Thursday, targeting Iranian officials accused of orchestrating the “brutal” response to the demonstrations. The situation remains highly volatile, with both sides on high alert.
Source: https://turks.us/us-says-all-options-on-the-table-if-iran-protest-killings-continue/
