Trump Considers Strikes on Iran as Protests, Regional Fears Grow

Post by : Saif Nasser

The United States is once again at the center of rising tension in the Middle East, as President Donald Trump considers possible military action against Iran. According to officials familiar with the matter, these options include targeted strikes on Iranian security forces and leaders. The aim, sources say, would be to encourage fresh protests against Iran’s ruling system after a recent and deadly crackdown on demonstrators.

This discussion comes after weeks of unrest in Iran, where protests over economic hardship and political control were met with severe force. Rights groups say thousands of people were killed, making it one of the bloodiest crackdowns since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The violence has shocked the country and left many citizens fearful and exhausted.

US officials say President Trump has not made a final decision. Some options being discussed involve limited strikes on commanders and security institutions blamed for the crackdown. Other plans include much larger attacks that could target Iran’s missile program or nuclear facilities. The recent arrival of a US aircraft carrier and warships in the region has increased America’s ability to act quickly if a decision is made.

Despite this, many regional and international officials are warning that airstrikes alone may not bring the outcome Washington hopes for. Israeli and Arab officials have expressed doubts that military force can lead to real political change inside Iran. They argue that without strong internal support and major defections from Iran’s security forces, protests are unlikely to succeed.

Iran, meanwhile, says it is preparing for the worst while still keeping diplomatic channels open. Iranian officials insist their nuclear program is for peaceful purposes and say they are ready for talks based on mutual respect. At the same time, they warn that Iran will defend itself strongly if attacked.

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, now 86, has reduced his public appearances and daily involvement in governance. However, he still holds final authority over major decisions, including war and nuclear policy. Analysts say this makes any sudden political change very difficult. Even if leadership shifts, there is no clear successor, raising fears of chaos or a power grab by hard-line forces.

Across the Middle East, neighboring countries are deeply worried. Gulf states fear they would be the first targets if Iran retaliates, possibly through missile or drone attacks. Several Arab nations have urged Washington to avoid military action, warning that the region could face serious instability if Iran is pushed into deeper conflict.

Experts caution that a weakened or fractured Iran could slide into civil war, similar to what happened in Iraq after 2003 or Syria after 2011. Such a collapse could send refugees across borders, disrupt global oil supplies, and fuel extremist violence.

For now, the situation remains uncertain. President Trump continues to pressure Iran while also calling for negotiations. The choices made in the coming weeks could shape not only Iran’s future but also the stability of the entire region. What is clear is that any move toward force carries heavy risks, with consequences that could last for generations.