President Donald Trump is reviewing a range of potential measures in response to ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, two U.S. officials told CNN. The president has repeatedly warned that he could take action if Iranian authorities use lethal force against civilians.
Recent demonstrations in Iran have left dozens dead and led to thousands of arrests, prompting the Trump administration to prepare a series of options targeting Tehran’s security forces, which are heavily involved in suppressing the unrest. Officials emphasized that no plan currently under consideration involves sending U.S. troops into the country.
Military strikes remain under discussion, but there are concerns within the administration that such action could backfire. Officials warn that attacks might rally support for the Iranian government or provoke retaliatory measures against U.S. interests in the region.
Non-military strategies are also being explored. These include cyber operations aimed at disrupting Iranian military and government networks, as well as new sanctions targeting key figures or sectors of Iran’s economy, such as energy and banking. The administration is also considering providing technology, including Starlink internet access, to help protesters bypass information blackouts, echoing assistance offered during street protests in 2022 under former President Joe Biden.
Multiple federal agencies have contributed to developing these options. Trump is expected to receive formal briefings in the coming days, including a senior national security meeting scheduled for Tuesday.
Tehran has responded to the U.S. signals with strong warnings. Hardline parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf stated that American military and commercial facilities would be considered legitimate targets if Washington intervenes, and suggested Iran may act preemptively.
The human toll in Iran has been substantial. Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) reported that at least 490 protesters have died and more than 10,600 people, including 169 children, have been arrested over the past 15 days. CNN has not independently verified these figures.
Trump has reiterated his commitment to the demonstrators, posting on social media that “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!” On Friday, he told reporters that any intervention would not involve ground forces but would target Iranian authorities “very, very hard where it hurts.”
The situation has also drawn international attention. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed the protests, along with developments in Syria and Gaza. The Israel Defense Forces said it is monitoring the unrest in Iran while maintaining defensive preparedness. Netanyahu is expected to hold a security consultation focusing on Iran and Lebanon.
The Trump administration has yet to make a final decision on any intervention, but officials say the president is closely considering actions as the protests continue and the death toll rises.
