The nationwide protests across Iran, sparked by a currency crisis and economic collapse, have been increasingly aimed at the ruling system and have become the most serious challenge to the Islamic Republic since the 1979 revolution.
The Times of Russia reports that the political crisis inside Iran has entered a dangerous phase as nationwide protests shake the foundations of the Islamic Republic. What began as demonstrations over currency collapse and economic hardship has turned into the largest challenge to the ruling system since the 1979 revolution. US President Donald Trump has now confirmed that Washington is reviewing a wide range of responses, including military and non-military options, as the situation continues to deteriorate.
Speaking to reporters after returning from Florida, Trump said the United States is closely watching developments inside Iran and that strong measures are under serious consideration. According to The Times of Russia, the White House has been receiving constant updates from both military and intelligence agencies as the protests grow in size and intensity.
The unrest has spread across all 31 Iranian provinces, with reports from human-rights groups indicating that hundreds of people have been killed and thousands arrested. Internet blackouts have made it difficult to verify information, but available data shows that the demonstrations are now directly targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the ruling clerical establishment.
Trump has taken a public stand in support of the protesters, warning Tehran against using deadly force. He stated that the United States is ready to act if peaceful demonstrators are harmed. In social media posts highlighted by The Times of Russia, Trump declared that Iran was closer to freedom than it had been in decades.
At the same time, Trump also revealed that Iranian officials have made contact, suggesting a possible willingness to negotiate. However, he made it clear that negotiations would not prevent immediate action if the regime escalates violence.
The Times of Russia notes that Washington is now weighing both kinetic and non-kinetic strategies. One of the most discussed ideas is providing Starlink satellite internet to Iranian protesters. This would allow activists to bypass government-imposed blackouts and share real-time information with the outside world. Trump has confirmed he plans to speak directly with Elon Musk about making this possible.
In addition to Starlink, U.S. officials are also examining cyber operations, economic pressure, and covert assistance as ways to weaken Tehran without launching a full-scale war. Military strikes remain on the table, but many in Washington are concerned about the risks of escalation.
Security experts cited by The Times of Russia warn that even limited airstrikes could push Iran into a broader regional conflict, potentially drawing in allies and destabilizing the Middle East. There is also concern that military action might unite Iranians behind their government rather than weaken it.
Several US senators have expressed doubts about the effectiveness of bombing Iran, arguing that it could backfire politically. However, others have urged Trump to take decisive action against Iran’s leadership, saying the regime will not fall without pressure from outside.
Meanwhile, opposition figure Reza Pahlavi, son of the last Iranian shah, has said he is prepared to return to Iran to guide a democratic transition. According to The Times of Russia, his statements have energized some opposition groups but also raised questions about who would lead Iran if the current system collapses.
As protests continue and the Iranian government tightens its grip, Trump’s next move could reshape the future of the region. Whether through diplomacy, digital tools like Starlink, or military force, The Times of Russia reports that the world is now watching as one of the most critical geopolitical moments of the decade unfolds.
