Trump Encourages Protesters, Cuts Off Talks with Tehran Amid Escalating Violence

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Washington: U.S. President Donald Trump publicly encouraged anti-government demonstrators in Iran to continue their protest movement and even “take over” state institutions, saying “help is on its way” as Tehran faces one of the most violent crackdowns in years.

In a series of statements and social media posts, Trump warned the Iranian leadership that those responsible for violence against protesters would “pay a heavy price” and announced that all planned meetings between U.S. officials and representatives of the Iranian government have been canceled until the deadly crackdown stops.

The president’s remarks come as Iran’s clerical establishment continues to respond forcefully to nationwide unrest, which has resulted in a growing death toll. Iranian authorities have not confirmed official numbers, but figures shared with international agencies and verified by human rights groups suggest thousands of civilians have been killed in the protests and ensuing security operations.

Trump also threatened that the U.S. could take “very strong action” if the Tehran government escalates its punitive measures against demonstrators, including potential executions.

In a departure from typical diplomatic restraint, Trump’s message directly appealed to Iranian citizens, urging them to challenge the regime’s institutions and suggesting the U.S. would support their cause though he did not specify what form that help might take.

Iran’s government condemned Trump’s comments as interference in its internal affairs. Iranian officials have portrayed external support for protesters as destabilizing and have publicly blamed the United States and its allies for exacerbating the unrest.

The escalating violence has drawn international attention, with various global actors warning of wider regional consequences. Some have raised fears that encouragement from the United States could further inflame tensions and risk broader conflict, even as human rights organisations continue to document the growing humanitarian cost of the crackdown.