President Donald Trump publicly told Iranians demonstrating against their government that “help is on its way,” as his administration weighs possible options.
Trump’s comments came as unrest in Iran entered its third week, with thousands feared dead and internet access inside the country reportedly restricted. In a series of remarks and social media posts, the President encouraged demonstrators to persist, even as he declined to clarify what form of assistance the United States might provide.
“Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price. I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY….” posted Trump on Truth Social, January 13.
Speaking later to reporters while traveling in Detroit, Trump refused to elaborate, responding only, “You’re going to have to figure that one out. I’m sorry.”
Trump’s national security team was expected to meet on January 13 to discuss potential options, including military, cyber, and economic measures, according to BBC reporting. Trump has said in recent days that the United States is “locked and loaded and ready to go,” though no official decision has been announced.
An Iranian security official told Reuters that the death toll could be around 2,000 people, including members of the security forces.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency has reported at least 1,847 demonstrators killed since December 28, while cautioning that the figure may be significantly higher due to the ongoing communications blackout. These figures could not be independently verified.
Iranian authorities have acknowledged mass arrests and that police had detained 279 people alleged to be linked to “riot organizations” connected to the United States or Israel, claims that could not be independently confirmed, the BBC reported.
The Iranian government has directly blamed Trump for the unrest. Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, posted on X that “We declare the names of the main killers of the Iranian people: 1- Trump 2- Netanyahu.”
Trump has also urged U.S. allies to leave Iran.
Asked whether Trump had advised allied governments to evacuate their nationals, the President responded, “I think they should get out. It’s not a bad idea,” according to the BBC.
International pressure on Iran continues to build.
The governments of Germany, the United Kingdom, and Italy summoned Iranian ambassadors over the crackdown, while European Union officials said additional sanctions were being prepared. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz said he believed the world was witnessing “the final days and weeks” of the Iranian regime, comments reported by Fox News.
The White House said diplomacy remained Trump’s preferred option but did not rule out military action. Press secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters that the President “has shown he’s unafraid to use military options if and when he deems necessary,” according to remarks reported by Fox News.
