US President Donald Trump has declared that the United States “stands ready to help” Iranians seeking freedom, further escalating tensions as the death toll in the ongoing nationwide protests rose to at least 65.
In a post on Truth Social on Saturday evening, Trump wrote, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before,” reiterating his previous warning to the regime that the U.S. would intervene if lethal force continues to be used against demonstrators.
Okay News reports that the unrest, which began on December 28, has become the most significant challenge to the Iranian government in years. Rights groups confirm that 65 people have been killed so far, including 50 protesters and 14 law enforcement personnel; tragically, seven of the victims were reportedly children.
The Iranian regime has responded with a crackdown, claiming to have arrested 100 “armed rioters” on Saturday for allegedly using firearms against security forces. A near-total internet blackout remains in place to hamper communication, while the country’s military warned citizens to remain vigilant against “enemy plots.” In a related development, Iran’s Revolutionary Guards claimed to have arrested a foreigner suspected of spying for Israel.
International support for the protesters continues to grow. European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen stated that “Europe stands fully behind” the demonstrators demanding freedom. Meanwhile, in London, solidarity protests turned tense as demonstrators scaled the balcony of the Iranian Embassy, leading to arrests by the Metropolitan Police.
