Washington (TDI): US President Donald Trump warned on Tuesday that the United States would take “very strong action” if Iranian authorities proceed with the threatened executions of protesters. Tehran, in response, dismissed American warnings as a potential cover for military intervention.
The protests, which erupted nationwide last week, have drawn global attention, with rights groups claiming that thousands of people may have been killed amid the crackdown. Iranian officials, however, maintain that the situation is under control.
In a post on X, Iran’s UN mission accused Washington of pursuing regime change. “US policies toward Iran rely on sanctions, threats, and engineered unrest, all aimed at justifying military action,” the statement said.
Trump, who had previously encouraged Iranians to keep protesting, told CBS News that the US would respond decisively if executions were carried out. Tehran prosecutors have said they will pursue capital charges against some protest participants under the charge of “moharebeh,” meaning “waging war against God.”
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Videos circulating online showed bodies in the Kahrizak morgue near Tehran, wrapped in black bags, as family members searched for missing relatives. Internet access has been largely blocked for more than five days, though phone connections for outgoing calls have been partially restored.
Trump also wrote on Truth Social urging Iranians to “KEEP PROTESTING,” adding that he had canceled meetings with Iranian officials until the violence stops, though he did not specify what form US assistance might take.
European nations have expressed concern over the rising casualties. France, Germany, and the UK summoned Iranian ambassadors, with EU chief Ursula von der Leyen calling the situation “horrifying” and promising further sanctions against those responsible.
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Iranian media reported that dozens of security personnel have died, with funerals drawing large pro-government crowds. A mass funeral in Tehran is scheduled for Wednesday to honor the recent casualties.
