President Donald Trump has warned Iran that its crackdown on protesters, with a death toll now over 500, crosses US red lines. He made the comments from Air Force One on January 11, 2026, as demonstrations in Iran entered their third week. Trump said he receives hourly updates on the situation and hinted at strong options if killings continue. The protests started over economic woes but now call for regime change.
Trump spoke directly about the violence. He said Iran’s actions against unarmed civilians go too far. “They are killing their own people, and that’s a red line for us,” he told reporters.
The president mentioned possible talks after Iran reached out. Sources say the contact focused on a new nuclear deal. Trump did not give details but stressed any agreement needs to address human rights too.
The unrest began on December 28, 2025, in Tehran and other cities. It kicked off with complaints about the rial’s sharp fall and high prices for basics like bread and fuel. Inflation hit over 300 per cent in some estimates.
Crowds soon shifted to broader demands. Chants called for the end of the Islamic Republic. Many shouted support for the pre-1979 monarchy. Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi got mentioned often. He lives in the US and pushes for democratic change.
Protests spread to all major cities. Reports from inside say security forces used live fire, tear gas, and arrests. Rights groups like Amnesty International put deaths at over 500 by January 12.
Thousands more got injured or detained. An internet blackout started on January 8, making news hard to get out. Videos still leaked showing crowds waving old flags and burning pictures of leaders.
Trump pledged to ask Elon Musk about Starlink access for Iranians. The service could bypass the blackout. Musk has helped in past conflicts like Ukraine.
The president faces calls for bolder steps. Senator Lindsey Graham urged arming protesters if needed. Pahlavi spoke out too, asking for US support to end the regime.
Iran’s government blames outsiders. State media calls protesters rioters backed by the US and Israel. Leaders deny high death counts and say forces act in self-defence. No official word on talks with Trump yet.
This comes as Trump’s second term starts. He pulled out of the Iran nuclear deal in 2018. Pressure increased with sanctions. Iran has enriched uranium higher since then. A new deal could ease tensions but needs trust on both sides.
Protests show deep frustration. Young people lead many marches. They face job shortages and limits on freedoms. Women join strongly, building on 2022 unrest after Mahsa Amini’s death. This time, economic pain hits everyone.
Exiled groups track events closely. They share videos and counts of dead. The blackout hides much, but satellite images show large crowds in squares.
Trump’s warning adds pressure. Past US leaders spoke out but acted little. This time, hints at options keep Iran alert. Talks could lead somewhere if both sides give. For now, streets stay tense. Protesters vow to continue. Iran warns of a firm response. The world watches for what comes next.
