Washington, Jan 10 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump cautioned Iran against resorting to violence to quell ongoing protests, asserting that the United States is vigilantly observing the situation and will take action if brutality towards civilians intensifies.

Addressing the press following a meeting at the White House with oil and gas leaders, Trump remarked that Iran is grappling with significant internal turmoil, implying that this moment could signify a pivotal change for the nation’s rulers.

“Iran is in deep trouble,” Trump stated. “It seems to me that the populace is gaining control over certain cities that no one thought would be feasible just weeks ago.”

He indicated that his administration has sent a firm message to Tehran against the killing of protesters, hinting at possible US intervention should such actions occur.

“I’ve made it very clear that if they begin to kill people as they have in the past, we will intervene,” he asserted. “We will strike them hard where it counts.”

The President emphasized that any US response would not include deploying ground troops.

“That does not mean boots on the ground, but it does mean hitting them very, very hard where it counts,” Trump elaborated.

He noted that the administration is meticulously monitoring the situation in Iran, labeling the ongoing events as unprecedented.

“We are observing the situation very closely,” Trump said. “It’s a remarkable situation to witness.”

Trump contrasted the current approach with former President Barack Obama’s responses to unrest in Iran, criticizing Obama for his lack of action during similar crises.

“There have been instances where President Obama completely backed down,” Trump remarked. “However, this is something extraordinary that is unfolding in Iran.”

He asserted that the unrest is a consequence of years of oppression by Iran’s leadership.

“They’ve performed poorly,” Trump said. “They have treated their citizens very poorly, and now they are facing the consequences.”

Trump refrained from detailing what actions the US may take, reiterating that the priority is to prevent violence against civilians.

“We do not want that to happen,” he stated, referring to a violent crackdown.

Trump acknowledged that the protests have garnered international attention, including remarks by Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, but he dismissed suggestions of more extensive US military operations beyond deterrence.

“I don’t believe that will be necessary,” Trump responded when asked about expanding military actions.

He stressed that his administration’s broader aim is stability without prolonged conflict while applying pressure on governments that suppress their populations.

Trump reiterated that the administration’s focus remains on avoiding mass casualties.

“We are monitoring it very closely,” he said, alluding to the ongoing protests in Iran.