Trump threatens 'strong' military action as Iran protest deaths rise
NPR••nation
Key Points:
- Hundreds of protesters have been killed in Iran amid nationwide demonstrations against the clerical regime, with rights groups documenting nearly 500 fatalities and over 10,600 arrests despite an internet blackout imposed by the government.
- President Trump has threatened "strong" military action if more demonstrators are killed, while also indicating a potential meeting with Iranian officials, as Tehran signals openness to negotiation through existing communication channels.
- The protests, initially sparked by economic collapse and currency devaluation, have expanded into widespread calls to end Iran’s theocracy, with security forces using military-grade weapons to suppress crowds and pro-government rallies staged in response.
- Iran’s regime faces significant internal and external pressures, including economic hardship, loss of regional influence due to conflicts in
