Is Trump Warning Iran of a 'Very Powerful Force'?
Synopsis
Key Takeaways
Washington, Jan 12 (NationPress) US President Donald Trump stated that the United States is contemplating “very strong options” in light of recent events in Iran, following reports suggesting that civilians may have lost their lives, leading to an intensified military assessment.
“It appears that they are starting to, and there seem to be individuals slain who shouldn't have been,” Trump remarked to reporters aboard Air Force One while returning from Florida to the White House on Sunday. “These individuals are violent if you label them as leaders. I’m uncertain if they’re truly leaders or merely impose their rule through violence.”
Trump mentioned that the US military is vigilantly observing the situation. “We are taking it very seriously. The military is reviewing it, and we are considering some very strong options. We will make a determination,” he stated.
When pressed about whether Iran had crossed a critical threshold, the President avoided detailing specific military strategies. “Are you really asking me to disclose our actions? Where will we strike? When and from what angle will we attack?” he questioned.
Trump confirmed that he is receiving regular updates regarding the situation in Iran. “I receive hourly briefings, and we will make a determination,” he noted.
In response to inquiries about reports of protester fatalities, Trump indicated that some deaths were attributed to crowd dynamics. “Some of the protesters were killed in the stampede. You know, there are so many of them, and some were shot,” he commented.
Addressing potential retaliation from Iran or its allies, Trump issued a stark warning. “If they take action, we will strike them with force they have never experienced before,” he asserted. “They will be shocked.”
According to Trump, Iran should already be aware of the US resolve. “Don’t you think they take your threats seriously?” he asked a reporter. “After enduring years of my responses, including actions against Soleimani, al-Baghdadi, and neutralizing the Iran nuclear threat.”
Trump did not confirm whether he had consulted with US allies regarding a response, nor did he specify a timeline for any decisions.
Iran has faced repeated waves of unrest in recent weeks, with thousands of Iranians protesting against the current regime in various cities across the nation.