US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran on Tuesday, stating that Tehran "better behave" or face serious consequences for its violent actions against protesters. Speaking to reporters after an event in Detroit, Trump said he was returning to the White House to closely review the situation, including obtaining accurate figures on reported killings and possible executions during the ongoing unrest. He described the Iranian people as having lived "in hell for a long time" and expressed hope for "a little bit of freedom" rather than full democracy.
When directly asked if he wanted to see democracy in Iran, Trump replied that the priority was preventing killings and granting basic freedoms to citizens. He recalled a time when Iran was a prosperous place for investment and its people lived well, contrasting it sharply with the current conditions under the existing leadership. Trump emphasised that the United States did not want to witness further violence against demonstrators and urged Iranian authorities to show humanity in handling the protests.
Addressing reports of potential hangings of protesters, Trump told CBS News reporter Emily Schrader that such actions would not end well for the regime. He referenced past US military actions against Iran's nuclear capabilities and dismissed Tehran's threats of retaliation, asserting that Iran no longer possesses significant nuclear strength. The President indicated that the administration would assess developments carefully, with White House officials confirming that "many options," including airstrikes, remain under review while diplomacy is preferred.
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In a separate economic measure, Trump announced an immediate 25 per cent tariff on all trade with the United States for any country conducting business with Iran. The directive aims to increase pressure on the Islamic Republic amid the protests, which have entered their 17th day and spread to 187 cities with 606 gatherings reported. Human rights groups have documented significant casualties on both sides during the nationwide demonstrations.
The protests have elicited varied international responses, with some nations viewing them as foreign-instigated disturbances while others condemn the authorities' violent crackdown. According to activist reports, the death toll includes 505 protesters—among them nine children—along with 133 security force members, one prosecutor, and seven uninvolved civilians. Trump reiterated that confirmed large-scale killings or executions would prompt a strong US response, underscoring the administration's monitoring of the crisis.
Also Read: Trump Imposes 25% Tariff on Countries Doing Business With Iran