US President Donald Trump said Washington was planning a possible intervention over Iran’s crackdown against anti-government protests.
More than 500 people are reported to have died as the regime — weakened by sanctions, economic stagnation, and recent attacks by the US and Israel — moved against the demonstrations, the most serious threat against the authorities in years.
Tehran has blocked internet access, but footage of widespread protests, including chants of “death to the dictator,” has made it out.
Trump said the attacks on protesters could lead to “very strong options” but that Iran wants to negotiate: Among the cards Tehran has to play would be to close the Strait of Hormuz, a key thoroughfare for much of the world’s oil.