President Donald Trump has issued a stark warning to Iran, threatening that the United States military is prepared to "hit very hard" as the country grapples with widespread civil unrest and a climbing death toll.
Trump's Social Media Ultimatum and Military Planning
Taking to his Truth Social platform on Saturday, the US President explicitly aligned America with the protestors, declaring that "Iran is looking for FREEDOM, perhaps like never before." He added a clear promise of intervention, stating, "The USA stands ready to help!!!"
This public post was followed by revelations from US officials, reported by the Wall Street Journal, that the Trump administration has held preliminary discussions about launching large-scale aerial assaults on multiple Iranian military targets. While described as part of routine contingency planning, insiders confirmed it indicates the seriousness with which Washington is considering action.
Escalating Tensions and Mounting Casualties
The threats come against a backdrop of severe domestic turmoil within Iran. Protests, initially sparked by soaring living costs and anger at the clerical leadership, have turned deadly. At least 65 people have been killed, including 50 protesters, with reports this week alone suggesting the total number of dead may exceed 200.
Earlier last week, while aboard Air Force One, President Trump delivered a blunt conditional warning: "We're watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they're going to get hit very hard by the United States."
Iran's Retort and Washington's Unwavering Support
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, swiftly retaliated against the US President's comments. He accused Trump of having his hands "stained with the blood of Iranians" and claimed protestors were destroying their own streets to please the American leader.
Undeterred, Trump has continued to amplify his support for the Iranian demonstrators. He reshared a post from Senator Lindsey Graham which stated, "This is truly not the Obama administration when it comes to standing up to the Iranian ayatollah." The message concluded with the provocative slogan, "Make Iran Great Again," and the assurance that "help is on the way."
Secretary of State Marco Rubio also voiced support on X, formerly Twitter, writing, "The United States supports the brave people of Iran." This concerted messaging from top US figures is fuelling international concerns that the standoff could escalate rapidly into a direct military confrontation.
