Trump has been briefed in recent days on different plans for intervention as violence has led to dozens of deaths and arrests. Several of the options presented focus on targeting Tehran’s security services that are being used to suppress the protests.
Officials also said there are concerns within the administration that military strikes could backfire and undermine the protests. They warned such action could rally public support behind the Iranian government or prompt Iran to retaliate with military force.
Alongside military scenarios, Trump is considering measures aimed at the regime that would stop short of direct strikes. These include cyber operations against Iranian military or regime targets, new sanctions on regime figures or key sectors such as energy and banking, and providing technology like Starlink to help protesters bypass an information blackout.
Iran has warned it would retaliate if the United States intervenes militarily, with parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf saying, “If the US takes military action towards Iran or the occupied territories, the U.S. military and shipping centers will be considered legitimate targets.” He added, “We do not limit ourselves to only reacting after an action has been taken.”
U.S. officials said no final decision has been made, but Trump is seriously considering action as the death toll continues to rise. A senior White House official told CNN that none of the options under review involve putting U.S. troops on the ground in Iran.
Source: CNN.
