Trump weighs military, covert moves on Iran

US President Donald Trump has been briefed on a range of potential actions the United States could take against Iran, including missile strikes, cyber operations and psychological campaigns, according to two Pentagon officials quoted by CBS News.

The discussions come amid sweeping nationwide protests in Iran that rights groups say have left more than 600 people dead in three weeks. While Trump has imposed new 25 percent tariffs on countries trading with Tehran, he has also warned that Washington may intervene militarily if the death toll rises further.

Iran’s government insists it is open to talks but says it remains prepared to fight if necessary. Reports suggest Trump’s national security advisers may meet at the White House to consider further options, though it is unclear whether Trump will attend.

Tensions have grown as Iran’s currency sinks and frustration over economic hardship transforms into anger toward the nation’s leadership. The US has urged its citizens to leave Iran as authorities intensify a crackdown and stage pro-government demonstrations.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused the United States of deceit and praised rallies backing the government, even as witnesses inside the country reported warnings not to join anti-government protests. State media shared images of large crowds in multiple cities.

Human rights monitors say hundreds have been killed, including minors, though independent reporting is limited due to restrictions on foreign media and widespread internet disruptions.

Additional pressure is coming through Trump’s new tariff threat, which could further strain Iran’s already battered economy and worsen shortages. China, Iraq, the UAE, Turkey and India are among Iran’s top trading partners.

Meanwhile, exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi has urged Trump to act quickly to prevent further bloodshed, insisting the Iranian government is trying to appear open to negotiation while tightening control at home.