Trump signals support for Iran's protesters as uncertainty remains

"Iran is looking at freedom, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!" the American president wrote.

At the same time, it remains unclear whether the US is actually prepared to assist protesters in Iran through military means. According to The Wall Street Journal, citing its sources in the White House, officials in the Trump administration have already held discussions on the possibility of striking Iran.

One official said that options include a massive airstrike on several Iranian military targets, should it become necessary to implement Trump's warning.

Another source, however, says there is currently no consensus on what to do. There has also been no movement of military equipment, personnel, or other preparations for a possible strike on Iran.

Iran is experiencing its largest protests since 2022, triggered by a sharp drop in the national currency and a deepening economic crisis. Against the backdrop of the rapid collapse of the rial, record inflation, and growing social anger, thousands of people have taken to the streets despite harsh repression by the authorities.

Over 13 days of protests, more than 50 people have been reported killed, including children. Early in the unrest, Trump reacted angrily to the crackdown, promising support for citizens if weapons were used against them.

US Republican Senator Lindsey Graham described Iran's ayatollah-led regime as "Nazi" and openly stated that "help is on the way," hinting at possible punitive actions by the US against Iran's leadership. According to media reports, Iran's Supreme Leader, ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has prepared an escape plan to flee to Moscow in case security forces fail to suppress the protests or begin to desert.