Trump weighs 'very strong options' as unrest in Iran escalates

Protests across Iran over economic hardship and dissatisfaction with the country’s clerical government have left hundreds dead, according to human rights groups, as President Donald Trump weighs possible U.S. responses to the unrest.

The Iranian government is facing widespread demonstrations that have reportedly claimed at least 192 lives, according to Iran Human Rights. Meanwhile, the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reported nearly 500 protesters and almost 50 security personnel killed. The protests have spread from Tehran to smaller cities, with videos showing security forces using tear gas and live ammunition in some areas.

President Trump told reporters Sunday aboard Air Force One that he is monitoring the situation and reviewing “very strong options” for a potential U.S. response. “The military is looking at it. We’re looking at some very strong options. We’ll make a determination,” he said. According to U.S. media reports, these options could range from cyber operations to missile strikes against Iranian military and nuclear facilities.

Economic Hardship Sparks Unrest

The demonstrations began after the Iranian currency, the rial, fell to a record low against the U.S. dollar on December 28. Experts have cited this financial shock as worsening an economy already weakened by international sanctions and government mismanagement. Economist Mahdi Ghodsi told The New York Times that persistent inflation above 40% has sharply reduced wages, prompting diverse groups — including students, merchants, and workers — to take to the streets.

The protests follow a series of regional pressures, including a brief conflict last June in which Israeli forces, reportedly joined by U.S. warplanes, struck Iranian nuclear facilities. Analysts say these events, combined with losses among Iran’s regional allies, have further strained state finances.

Government Response and Public Reaction

Iranian officials have sought to quell unrest through limited economic measures, such as replacing the central bank governor and authorizing small cash payments equivalent to about $7 USD. President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged that the government bore responsibility for the crisis.

At the same time, Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, warned that “the Islamic Republic will not back down” and called for rioters to be “put in their place.” The country’s prosecutor general has indicated that proceedings should proceed “without leniency,” including potential capital punishment for those deemed “enemies of God.”

The enforcement of these measures, including raids on hospitals treating injured protesters and sweeping internet blackouts, has reportedly fueled public anger and made independent verification of casualties difficult.

International Implications

U.S. officials have indicated that the White House is closely examining military options. Speaking to CNBC, geopolitical strategist Matt Gertken suggested that strikes on Iranian government assets might deter leadership, while security analyst Danny Citrinowicz warned that “symbolic” attacks could escalate into broader conflict.

Iranian authorities have threatened retaliation against U.S. and Israeli military sites if attacked. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said his forces are “closely monitoring” the situation.

The situation remains fluid, with protests continuing and the potential for international escalation looming if Iran or external powers take further action.