In a stark escalation of rhetoric, former US President Donald Trump has issued his strongest signal yet that he may be preparing for military action against Iran, directly addressing protesters and vowing that assistance is imminent.
Trump's Direct Appeal and Warning to Tehran
On Tuesday, Trump used his Truth Social platform to deliver a message to "Iranian Patriots," telling them to "keep protesting – take over your institutions!!! … help is on its way." He declared that he had cancelled all meetings with Iranian officials until what he termed the "senseless killing" of demonstrators ceased.
This public call for continued dissent came just one day after widespread protests in Iran appeared to subside under the severe pressure of a government crackdown. Trump stated he was still in discussions with officials about potential actions but made clear that further economic sanctions alone would likely not satisfy him.
He issued a specific threat, warning there would be "very strong action" if the Iranian regime proceeded with hanging arrested protesters, though he provided no details on what form that action might take.
US Citizens Told to 'Leave Iran Now'
In a parallel and highly significant move, the US State Department issued an urgent warning to American citizens on Tuesday. The advisory was blunt: "Leave Iran now."
Guidance published by the US virtual embassy for Iran advised citizens to "have a plan for departing that does not rely on US government help." It suggested those who could do so safely should consider leaving by land to neighbouring Armenia or Türkiye.
The combined statements from Trump and the State Department represent the clearest indication to date that the administration is actively considering a significant shift in its posture towards Tehran, potentially moving beyond diplomatic and economic pressure.
Broader Context and Other Key Developments
The tense situation with Iran unfolded alongside several other major policy announcements from the Trump administration on Tuesday.
In a move affecting hundreds of people, the administration announced it was terminating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Somalis living in the United States. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated conditions in Somalia had improved, giving individuals two months to leave or face deportation. Trump further said his administration would seek to revoke US citizenship from any naturalised immigrant convicted of defrauding citizens.
Internationally, Greenland's Prime Minister, Jens-Frederik Nielsen, delivered a firm rebuke to reported US interest in the Arctic territory. Ahead of White House talks, he stated publicly, "we choose Denmark," asserting the island would not be owned or governed by the US.
On the economic front, Trump delivered a speech in Detroit claiming victory, declaring his first year back in office the "greatest first year in history" for the economy, despite widespread public concern over the cost of living.
Other notable events included global central banks offering "full solidarity" to Federal Reserve Chair Jerome Powell amid concerns over White House pressure, and the Trump administration facing criticism for demanding lists of Jewish-affiliated individuals from the University of Pennsylvania.
