U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly urged Iranian citizens to continue nationwide protests, telling demonstrators to take control of institutions and remember the names of those responsible for violence against them. His comments come as Iran faces its largest internal unrest in years, driven by a collapsing economy and growing public anger.
Posting on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump declared that “help is on its way”, though he did not explain what form that help would take.
The Iranian government responded angrily, accusing the United States and Israel of encouraging chaos and bloodshed inside the country.
Trump Calls on Protesters to “Take Over” Institutions
In a strongly worded post, Trump addressed Iranians directly:
“Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!… HELP IS ON ITS WAY.”
He later repeated his message in a public speech, telling protesters to record the names of officials involved in abuse, warning that those responsible would “pay a very big price.”
Trump also announced that he had cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials until the killing of protesters stopped.
When asked by reporters what he meant by “help,” Trump replied:
“You’ll have to figure that out.”
“We’ll act accordingly.”
He confirmed that military action remains one of several options being considered by Washington.
Rising Death Toll and Mass Arrests
Iranian authorities have, for the first time, acknowledged a nationwide death toll, saying around 2,000 people have been killed during more than two weeks of unrest.
However, human rights groups suggest the figures may be even more serious.
According to rights organisations:
HRANA (U.S.-based group) reports:
2,003 confirmed deaths
1,850 were protesters
16,784 people detained
Arrest numbers rose sharply compared to earlier reports
Independent verification remains difficult due to internet blackouts and media restrictions inside Iran.
Iran Accuses U.S. and Israel of Inciting Violence
Iranian officials reacted strongly to Trump’s comments.
Key accusations from Tehran include:
The U.S. is interfering in Iran’s internal affairs
Trump is inciting violence and instability
Washington and Israel are responsible for civilian deaths
Iran’s Ambassador to the United Nations, Amir Saeid Iravani, sent a letter to the U.N. Security Council, stating:
“The United States and the Israeli regime bear direct and undeniable responsibility for the loss of innocent lives, particularly among young people.”
Russia also criticised what it called “external interference”, warning that any repeat of past U.S. strikes would have disastrous consequences for the Middle East.
Trump Warns Iran Against Executing Protesters
In an interview with CBS News, Trump issued a stern warning to Iranian authorities against executing detained protesters.
“If they hang them, you’re going to see some things,” he said.
Although he did not clarify what actions would follow, Trump promised “very strong action” if executions began.
Execution fears grow:
Hengaw, a Kurdish rights group, reported that:
A 26-year-old man, Erfan Soltani
Arrested in Karaj
Is scheduled for execution on Wednesday
Iranian state media has not confirmed this
Reuters could not independently verify the claim
Human rights groups say executions are common in Iranian prisons, raising serious international concern.
Internet Blackouts and Starlink Access
The Iranian government has imposed severe communication restrictions, including partial internet shutdowns, making it difficult to confirm events on the ground.
Current situation:
Phone services have been restored
Internet access remains limited
Information flow is heavily restricted
However, U.S.-based organisation Holistic Resilience announced that Elon Musk’s Starlink satellite internet service is now available for free in Iran, potentially allowing protesters to bypass censorship.
Economic Crisis at the Heart of the Protests
The unrest began on December 28, following a sharp fall in Iran’s currency value and worsening living conditions.
Key causes of the protests:
Skyrocketing inflation
Rising unemployment
Food and fuel shortages
Long-standing anger toward clerical leadership
What started as economic protests has now grown into wider demands for political change, including calls for the end of Iran’s clerical system, in power since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
International Pressure Continues to Mount
Western governments have reacted strongly to the crackdown.
Global response includes:
Britain, France, Germany, and Italy summoning Iranian ambassadors
European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen calling the death toll “horrifying”
German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggesting the regime may be nearing collapse
“If a government must survive through violence, it is effectively at its end,” Merz said.
Meanwhile, Trump announced 25% import tariffs on any country doing business with Iran. China, one of Iran’s biggest oil buyers, swiftly criticised the move.
No Signs of Division Within Iran’s Security Forces
Despite the scale of protests, there are no visible cracks within Iran’s security elite so far.
Authorities continue a dual strategy:
Harsh crackdowns on demonstrations
Public acknowledgment that economic grievances are legitimate
For now, Iran’s leadership appears determined to hold on to power.
What Happens Next?
With rising casualties, threats of executions, and increasing international pressure, Iran stands at a critical crossroads.
Whether Trump’s warning of “help” signals diplomatic action, economic escalation, or military involvement remains unclear. What is certain is that the unrest represents the biggest internal challenge Iran has faced in years, with global consequences.
References & Sources
Reuters
CBS News
HRANA (Human Rights Activists News Agency)
Hengaw Human Rights Organisation
United Nations statements
European Commission remarks
For Health & Fitness Products, Click => http://tinyurl.com/5n872ptd