Trump Warns of “Very Strong Options” as Iran Unrest Escalates

U.S. President Donald Trump has warned that Washington is considering “very strong options” in response to the escalating unrest and deadly protests in Iran, signaling a possible shift toward more aggressive U.S. policy if Tehran’s crackdown continues. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said the situation is being reviewed “very seriously” and that the U.S. military is studying a range of responses, including potential action, as anti-government demonstrations remain widespread and violent.

Trump’s comments come as protests across Iran’s major cities continue into a third week, with human rights groups reporting that the death toll has risen sharply, exceeding 500 amid clashes between demonstrators and security forces. He emphasized that Iranian authorities may have crossed a previously stated “red line” by allowing or causing deaths of demonstrators, a factor that could trigger a more forceful U.S. response. “We’re looking at it very seriously,” Trump told journalists, adding that senior officials are briefing him on options that could range from increased sanctions and cyber operations to direct military actions.

The U.S. president also noted that Iran’s leadership has reached out seeking talks with Washington, and a tentative meeting is being arranged. However, Trump warned that Washington “may have to act before a meeting” if conditions on the ground deteriorate further.

Iranian officials have strongly rejected U.S. threats, with the country’s parliamentary speaker warning that American and Israeli targets would be considered legitimate if the United States were to intervene militarily.

Analysts say Trump’s remarks reflect a heightened U.S. stance amid one of the most serious protest movements in Iran in years. As the unrest shows no sign of abating, the possibility of U.S. involvement — even if limited — adds another layer of complexity to an already volatile situation that could have wide-ranging geopolitical consequences.

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