President Trump stated he is exploring "very strong options" to support the ongoing protests in Iran, which have intensified with a rising death toll. He indicated he receives hourly updates on the situation and suggested that the Iranian regime's actions might be crossing a red line he previously established. Trump commented on the deaths of protesters, noting that some were killed in a stampede and others were shot, implying these deaths were unwarranted.
The U.S. president is scheduled to meet with his national security team to discuss potential actions aimed at supporting the protests and weakening the Iranian regime. While military strikes are among the discussed options, many within the administration believe that significant military action could be counterproductive to the protests at this stage. Consequently, most options to be presented to Trump are reportedly "not kinetic," including measures like deterring the regime by rerouting an aircraft carrier strike group to the region, as well as considering cyberattacks and information operations.
In response to potential U.S. actions, Iranian officials have threatened to target U.S. military bases in the region if an attack is ordered. Trump warned of a powerful response if Iran were to target U.S. interests. Additionally, Trump mentioned the possibility of contacting Elon Musk to inquire about using his Starlink satellite service to help restore internet access in Iran, which has experienced blackouts.