By: Ebenezer Adu-Gyamfi and Emmanuel Ayiku for Ghanaian news Canada. 13/1/2026
U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly encouraged anti-government protesters in Iran to continue their demonstrations, telling them that “help is on its way” though he did not specify exactly what form that support would take. The comments come amid one of the largest protest movements in Iran in years and a harsh government crackdown.
Trump made the statements in a social media post directed at Iranian demonstrators, urging them to “keep protesting” and to “take over your institutions.” He also canceled all meetings with Iranian officials until the violent repression of protesters ends.
The U.S. leader has previously indicated that military action remains one of several options being considered in response to Tehran’s crackdown a stance that reflects growing tension between Washington and Tehran over how to handle the turmoil.
Human rights groups and observers say that hundreds possibly thousands have been killed during the nationwide demonstrations, which began over economic issues but have since expanded into broader opposition to Iran’s clerical leadership. Internet blackouts and restrictions have made it difficult to verify exact figures on casualties and arrests.
The unrest and Trump’s statements have raised international concern over the risk of escalation, with Tehran warning that it could respond forcefully to any foreign intervention and insisting it is “ready for war” if provoked
