President Donald Trump halted diplomatic outreach to Tehran on Jan. 13, 2026, and urged “Iranian Patriots” to keep protesting and “take over your institutions,” escalating U.S. pressure amid the largest unrest Iran has seen in years.
In a Truth Social post, Trump told demonstrators to record the names of those responsible for killings and promised, “HELP IS ON ITS WAY.” He added that he had canceled all meetings with Iranian officials until the crackdown ends.
The move followed days of intensifying street protests, rolling internet blackouts and mounting casualty reports. Iranian authorities had previously signaled backchannel contacts with U.S. officials, which Trump publicly rejected while signaling that military options remain on the table if mass violence continues.
The White House said diplomacy is still the first preference but emphasized that the president is prepared to act if necessary.
What Trump said and what changes now
Trump’s morning post set two clear markers, an end to meetings with Iranian representatives and a direct appeal for Iranians to keep up pressure on state institutions. The message mirrored language he has used in recent days warning that those who kill protesters will “pay a big price.”
The White House later reinforced that the president is weighing several responses, from additional sanctions and economic measures to military options calibrated to deter further bloodshed.
The administration has also tied new trade pressure to the crisis. Trump announced a 25 percent tariff on imports from countries doing business with Iran, aiming to cut off channels that Tehran uses to source critical goods and revenue.
Officials did not release a list of targeted products, and they said detailed guidance will follow. Major trading partners have sought clarifications on scope and timing.
Death toll claims and blackout limits
Casualty figures remain contested. An Iranian official acknowledged roughly 2,000 people killed since protests began, according to international reporting on Jan. 13. Rights groups gave lower verified counts earlier in the week, placing deaths in the hundreds while warning totals would rise as communications are restored.
Independent verification is difficult because authorities have restricted internet access, blocked platforms and limited foreign media movement inside Iran.
Video authenticated by international newsrooms shows large night marches in Tehran and other cities, along with security forces deploying live fire and tear gas. Hospitals have reported surges in admissions linked to crowd-control injuries. Iranian state media has emphasized casualties among security personnel and alleged foreign orchestration of the unrest.
Editors at global outlets note that figures are fluid, which is common in fast-moving crackdowns where connectivity is deliberately curtailed.
