Washington / Tehran — January 11, 2026
As anti-government protests continue across Iran, U.S. President Donald Trump has signaled support for what he described as Iran’s push toward freedom, while the country’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has issued stark warnings, including the possibility of capital punishment for protesters and their supporters.
On Sunday, Trump said the United States is prepared to help Iran break free from its current ruling system, led by Ayatollah Khamenei. Posting on his social media platform Truth Social, Trump claimed that Iran is “closer to freedom than ever before” and added that Washington is ready to provide support “in every possible way.”
Is the U.S. Considering Military Action Against Iran?
According to media reports, the Trump administration is discussing preliminary options regarding potential military action against Iran. The New York Post, citing the Wall Street Journal, reported that U.S. officials are deliberating next steps following Trump’s recent warnings to Tehran.
One option reportedly under discussion includes large-scale airstrikes on multiple Iranian military installations. However, officials emphasized that no final decision has been made. There has been no deployment of U.S. troops and no movement of military equipment so far.
Strong Warning from Washington
Trump has issued a firm warning to Iranian authorities against using force on protesters. On Friday, he said that if Iranian security forces open fire on demonstrators, the United States would respond. Concern within Washington over Iran’s internal situation continues to intensify.
Khamenei’s Counterattack
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded sharply, launching a direct attack on the United States and President Trump.
Khamenei accused Trump of having “blood on his hands.”
He said the U.S. president should focus on problems within America instead of Iran.
He claimed that the protests in Iran are being staged to appease the United States.
At the same time, Iranian authorities have tightened their crackdown nationwide. Officials warned that anyone assisting protesters would be labeled an “enemy of God,” a charge under Iranian law that can lead to the death penalty.
In a statement aired on Iranian state television, authorities said that those who “aid rioters” would face the same punishment. Prosecutors were instructed to file charges without delay and conduct strict trials against individuals accused of destabilizing the country or assisting foreign powers. The statement emphasized that no leniency or mercy should be shown in such cases.
U.S. Has Previously Struck Inside Iran
The United States has previously carried out military strikes inside Iran. In June, U.S. forces dropped at least six bunker-buster bombs on three Iranian sites, including the Fordow nuclear enrichment facility, located approximately 300 feet beneath a mountain.
Those strikes followed Iranian threats to use nuclear capabilities against Israel and were conducted in coordination with Israeli military operations, according to reports.
Situation Remains Highly Volatile
With protests continuing nationwide and rhetoric intensifying on both sides, the situation in Iran remains highly volatile. International observers warn that any escalation—political or military—could have far-reaching regional consequences.
