Iran is facing its deadliest protests in years, with reports of at least 646 deaths and over 10,600 arrests since demonstrations erupted nationwide. Protesters, driven by economic hardship and opposition to political repression, have taken to major cities, while security forces have responded with live ammunition, beatings, and mass detentions. Internet restrictions and communications blackouts have made independent verification of casualties difficult.
The US is closely monitoring the situation and weighing its response. President Donald Trump said Iran has signaled a willingness to negotiate but emphasized that military options remain under consideration if talks fail or Tehran intensifies its crackdown. Vice President JD Vance has emerged as a key voice in the administration, advocating for engagement with Tehran through diplomatic channels as a first step while keeping the possibility of air strikes or other targeted actions as leverage. Vance’s stance reflects a growing push within the White House to prioritize negotiations and reduce the risk of direct conflict.
Senior US officials stress that diplomacy is currently the preferred approach, including talks over Iran’s nuclear ambitions and the ongoing human rights abuses. Economic measures, such as tariffs on countries trading with Iran, are also under review as part of broader pressure on the regime.
Iranian leaders have warned that any foreign military intervention would be met with retaliation, labeling US and Israeli forces as legitimate targets. Government-backed rallies have called for national unity, even as the regime blames foreign influence for stoking unrest.
The situation presents a complex challenge for the US, which must balance support for human rights with the risks of military escalation. White House sources say all options—diplomacy, sanctions, cyber operations, and military strikes—remain under consideration, while behind-the-scenes diplomatic channels continue.
As the protests continue, global attention is on the crackdown and Washington’s next moves. The developments highlight rising tensions in US–Iran relations and underscore the delicate task facing Trump, with Vance and other advisors shaping the administration’s approach to prevent further instability.
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