Washington warns Tehran of potential military action
The United States has made it clear that military intervention remains a possibility if Iran continues to use deadly force against protesters. Speaking at an emergency UN Security Council session, US Ambassador Mike Waltz said President Donald Trump is prepared to act decisively, emphasizing that “all options are on the table” to stop what Washington calls the ongoing slaughter of civilians. While the threat of retaliation remains, Trump also hinted that the violence may be easing.
Iran pushes back at the UN
Iran’s deputy UN ambassador, Hossein Darzi, sharply rejected the US accusations, claiming Washington is directly fueling unrest under the guise of supporting human rights. He accused the US of using a “humanitarian” narrative to justify potential military intervention and political destabilization. The Iranian delegation stressed that the country’s internal affairs should not be influenced by outside powers.
Protests suppressed amid mounting death toll
On the ground, nationwide demonstrations appear to be waning under a heavy security crackdown and a communications blackout. Eyewitnesses in Tehran report quieter streets and a sharp reduction in gunfire, with no signs of overnight fires or debris. Human rights groups report at least 2,677 deaths so far, making this the deadliest wave of protests since Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution, though some sources inside the country fear the toll could be as high as 15,000.
In response to the crackdown, Washington announced new sanctions targeting Iranian officials accused of orchestrating violence against protesters, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security. The G7 nations and the European Union are also considering additional measures, with EU Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stating that the bloc aims to increase pressure to push for regime change and meaningful reform in Tehran.
