Washington/Tehran: Protests continued unabated across Iran, bringing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei under unprecedented pressure. The United States issued a safety advisory for its citizens and is reportedly considering military, cyber and economic options.
Nationwide Unrest
Iran protests: What was initially a series of protests over economic grievances mushroomed into general anti-government demonstrations. Reports say hundreds are injured and more arrested as security forces use force to break up rallies. Communications blackouts and internet restrictions have rendered several areas virtually out of bounds for news, complicating the situation further.
Khamenei’s Authority Being Tested
The protests are testing Khamenei’s grip on the country more than any domestic event in years. And while state media trumpets pro-government rallies, independent observers say unrest in major cities remains rampant. For the first time, economic grievances have been matched with calls for political reform-a potentially deeper harbinger of instability.
US Travel Advisory
The US embassy, against this backdrop of unrest, has asked its citizens either to depart the country or to stay in safe locations. This travel guidance points out that in-country security is unstable, and it is getting worse every passing day.
Possible US Response
The Trump administration is said to be weighing its options, which include military, cyber, and economic, depending on the development of the crisis. Although there has not yet been a decision, there has continued to be support for the protesters in this crisis.
Regional Risks
Iranian officials say any foreign intervention could lead to an Iranian response, increasing the risk to regional security. Experts say Iranian retaliation would need to be considered when US action against Iran becomes a reality.
