On January 13, 2026, President Donald Trump used his Truth Social platform to urge Iranian anti-government protesters to "KEEP PROTESTING - TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!" while promising that "HELP IS ON ITS WAY".

 

On January 13, 2026, President Donald Trump used his Truth Social platform to urge Iranian anti-government protesters to "KEEP PROTESTING - TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!!" while promising that "HELP IS ON ITS WAY".

 

Key Developments as of January 14, 2026:

Escalating Rhetoric: Trump's declaration is seen as the clearest signal of potential direct U.S. intervention or military action against Tehran during this wave of unrest. He warned the Iranian regime would "pay a very big price" if it proceeded with planned executions of protesters.

Cessation of Diplomacy: Trump announced he has canceled all meetings with Iranian officials until the "senseless killing" of demonstrators stops.

Potential Action: While details on what "help" entails remain scarce, options reportedly under discussion by the National Security Council include military airstrikes, cyber operations, and psychological campaigns. Trump has also threatened a 25% tariff on any country that continues to trade with Iran.

Casualties and Crackdown: Human rights groups, including HRANA, report that more than 2,400 people have been killed and over 18,000 arrested since the protests began in late December 2025. An internet blackout has persisted for over five days, severely limiting information flow.

State Department Warning: The U.S. State Department issued a high-level alert advising all American citizens to leave Iran immediately.

Iranian Response: Iranian National Security Secretary Ali Larijani labeled Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu as the "main murderers" of the Iranian people and warned that U.S. interference would destabilize the region.

The protests, initially sparked by a currency collapse and high cost of living, have evolved into widespread calls for regime change