US Considering Very Strong Options for Iran

US President Donald Trump has confirmed that Washington is closely monitoring protests in Iran and is considering various options for a response. According to Trump, these options include “strong actions” that may involve military intervention. He stated that the US government is taking the situation seriously and is evaluating different possibilities.

Trump also reported that Iranian leaders had contacted him to discuss potential negotiations, but added that “we may have to act before a meeting”. There was no immediate comment from Tehran on this matter.

Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf earlier warned against military intervention, stating that any attack on Iran would target occupied territories and US bases. The protests in Iran began on December 28, with merchants at the Grand Bazaar closing their shops due to the plummeting value of the Iranian rial. The demonstrations have since spread nationwide, with grievances evolving from economic concerns to broader opposition against the clerical establishment.

According to Iranian state media, at least 109 security personnel have been killed in the unrest. However, opposition activists outside the country claim that the death toll is higher and includes hundreds of protesters. A nationwide internet blackout has persisted for over 72 hours, according to monitoring groups.

Trump also discussed his plans for Venezuela and Greenland during a press conference on Air Force One. He stated that he would meet with Venezuelan opposition leader Maria Corina Machado on Tuesday or Wednesday, and assured global oil companies that they will be “safe” if they invest in the country. Trump repeated his pledge to support these companies, saying that they had problems in the past due to previous administrations.

On Greenland, Trump called for the Danish territory to “make a deal”, stating that he is considering acquiring it through purchase or force. He also claimed that China and Russia have deployed military vessels in the waters around Greenland, although this claim has not been verified.

Source: Al Jazeera