Tehran Protests: Trump Considers Air Striking Iran As An Option

Tehran Protests: US President Donald Trump's administration escalated pressure on Iran as White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt declared airstrikes as "one of the many, many options" available to the commander-in-chief amid the regime's deadly crackdown on massive anti-government protests. While emphasising diplomacy as the first choice and noting private outreach from Tehran contrasting public threats, Leavitt stressed Trump's readiness to act militarily if needed. In response, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned US politicians to end "deceptions" and avoid relying on "traitor mercenaries," framing the Iranian nation's resolve against it's enemies.

Meanwhile, Trump imposed a sweeping 25% tariff on countries conducting business with the Islamic Republic of Iran. Earlier comments from Trump on Air Force One highlighted interest in negotiations despite the tough stance. On the contrary, exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi praised Trump as a "man of peace" whose solidarity has empowered protesters, urging continued support to "Make Iran Great Again" after the regime's fall. This unfolds as protests rage on with reports of over 250–600+ deaths from the crackdown, economic despair, and internet blackouts, raising questions about whether diplomacy can prevail or if military confrontation looms.