U.S. Considers Military, Cyber, and Covert Responses
President Donald Trump has been briefed on a broad range of military and covert options related to Iran, according to two U.S. Department of Defense officials. The briefings included scenarios involving long-range missile strikes, cyber operations, and psychological campaigns aimed at disrupting Iran’s leadership and command structures.
While air power remains a central option, U.S. defense planners are also exploring non-traditional responses that could weaken Iran’s internal coordination without immediate large-scale military intervention.
White House Weighs Next Steps on Iran
Trump’s national security team is expected to meet at the White House to assess next steps, though it remains unclear whether the president will attend. The discussions come as anti-government protests in Iran enter their third week, with human rights groups reporting more than 600 deaths.
Trump has warned that the U.S. could take action if the violence continues, stating previously that the military was reviewing “very strong options.”
Tariffs Increase Pressure on Tehran
On Monday, Trump announced a 25% tariff on goods from countries doing business with Iran, a move designed to further isolate Tehran economically. The decision could impact major Iranian trade partners, including China, India, Turkey, Iraq, and the United Arab Emirates.
Iran’s economy is already under strain, with a collapsing currency and soaring inflation. Food prices have reportedly risen by as much as 70%, worsening shortages and increasing public anger.
Iran Signals Talks, Prepares for Conflict
Iran’s foreign minister has said Tehran is open to negotiations with Washington but remains “prepared for war.” U.S. officials say private messages from Iranian representatives appear more conciliatory than the country’s public rhetoric.
Despite state media claims that unrest has subsided, footage obtained from inside Iran suggests protests continue in multiple cities. An ongoing internet blackout has made independent verification difficult.
Rising Protests Challenge Iran’s Leadership
Economic hardship and political frustration have evolved into what analysts describe as a crisis of legitimacy for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. While the government has organized pro-regime rallies, reports indicate security forces continue to crack down on dissent.
Human rights organizations warn that the death toll may be significantly higher than officially reported, with unverified claims suggesting thousands may have been killed.
U.S. Signals Readiness to Act
The White House has reiterated that Trump is not afraid to use military force if necessary. Pentagon officials say any U.S. response would likely prioritize precision air power, combined with efforts to disrupt Iran’s communications and leadership networks.
Americans currently in Iran have been urged to leave or prepare exit plans that do not rely on U.S. government assistance.
A High-Stakes Decision Ahead
With protests intensifying, sanctions tightening, and diplomatic channels uncertain, Trump faces a complex and high-stakes decision. The outcome could shape not only U.S.-Iran relations but also regional stability and global markets in the weeks ahead.
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