US President cancels meetings and promises aid to demonstrators
Global attention remains fixed on the Middle East as US President Donald Trump has overtly thrown his support behind the ongoing unrest in the Islamic Republic. sending a direct message to demonstrators on Tuesday, Trump urged them to continue their agitation, promising that "help is on its way."
Taking to his platform, Truth Social, the President addressed "Iranian Patriots" directly. He encouraged citizens to take control of their institutions and document the identities of those responsible for violence against civilians. In a stern warning to the current regime, Trump declared he has cancelled all scheduled meetings with Iranian officials until the violence against protesters ceases. He signed off with the promise of incoming assistance and his slogan, "MIGA."
Economic Pressure and Military Options
Beyond rhetoric, the White House is turning up the heat financially. A new directive announced by Trump imposes a strict 25 percent tariff on any nation continuing to do business with Iran. This final order aims to economically isolate the clerical leadership.
Simultaneously, the administration is keeping all strategic options open regarding the Trump Iran protests. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt informed the press that while diplomacy remains the primary route, other measures—including potential airstrikes—are being considered. This comes as Iranian officials, including Foreign Minister Araghchi, state that while Tehran does not seek war, it is prepared for any scenario.
Ground Situation and Rising Casualties
The situation on the ground remains volatile. Reports citing Reuters and The Times of Israel indicate that the death toll has reached approximately 2,000 people. Officials in Tehran have blamed "terrorists" for these casualties, while international bodies, including the United Nations, have expressed horror at the use of brutal force against peaceful demonstrators.
Complicating matters is a severe information blackout. Iran’s cyberspace authorities have restricted access to the global internet to counter what they term "cognitive warfare." NetBlocks, an internet governance watchdog, confirmed that the nation has been largely offline for over 108 hours, leaving citizens isolated.
Amidst this chaos, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince, has made a public appeal to the US President. Speaking to CBS News, Pahlavi urged Trump to intervene sooner rather than later to hasten the regime's collapse and prevent further loss of life.
