Trump warns of military response
The United States has made it clear that military intervention remains on the table if Iran continues to use lethal force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is prepared to act decisively to stop the ongoing violence. Waltz stressed that the president favors action over extended debate and that Tehran should understand the seriousness of the US warning. While the threat remains, Trump also suggested that the killing may be slowing.
Iran accuses US of interference
Iran’s deputy UN ambassador, Hossein Darzi, sharply rejected Washington’s claims, accusing the US of actively encouraging unrest under the pretext of defending human rights. He said the United States is attempting to portray itself as a friend of the Iranian people while laying the groundwork for political destabilization and potential military intervention. Darzi insisted that foreign interference in Iran’s internal affairs is unacceptable.
Protests subdued amid mounting death toll
On the ground, demonstrations appear to be slowing under heavy security and a nationwide communications blackout. Residents in Tehran report quieter streets, fewer fires, and a noticeable drop in gunfire. Human rights groups report at least 2,677 deaths, the deadliest wave of anti-government protests since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, though insiders warn the true toll may be closer to 15,000.
In response to the crackdown, Washington announced new sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of directing 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 on Tehran to push for political change and an end to the current regime’s crackdown.
