President Donald J. Trump has issued a stark warning to the Iranian regime that the United States will strike Iran “very hard” and make the government “pay hell” if its leadership responds to nationwide protests by killing demonstrators. The remarks, delivered in a series of interviews and public statements, underscore a firm U.S. stance in support of Iranian citizens and against violent repression, as unrest spreads across the Islamic Republic.

Large-scale demonstrations in Iran were triggered by severe economic distress and dissatisfaction with the ruling system, quickly spreading to more than two dozen provinces and resulting in dozens of confirmed deaths and thousands of arrests. The protests have unfolded in 111 cities and towns according to multiple reports, prompting Iranian authorities to impose an internet blackout in attempts to suppress communication and control the narrative. :contentReference[oaicite:0]{index=0}

In interviews with conservative media hosts, President Trump emphasized that Tehran has been explicitly told that should its security forces begin to kill peaceful protesters, the United States will respond with forceful measures. “If they start killing people, which they tend to do during their riots … we are going to hit them very hard,” he said, asserting that Iranian leaders have been warned both publicly and privately about the consequences of targeting demonstrators. :contentReference[oaicite:1]{index=1}

Trump’s comments reflect a continuation of his broader foreign policy approach toward authoritarian regimes, where pressure and deterrence are coupled with vocal support for populations seeking freedom and human rights. This policy comes on the heels of recent U.S. actions in Venezuela that Trump administration officials have described as successful in weakening oppressive forces and promoting democratic outcomes. :contentReference[oaicite:2]{index=2}

The Iranian government has rejected the threats as external interference, maintaining that the protests are an internal matter and accusing foreign powers of fomenting unrest. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has publicly condemned ties between protesters and alleged “foreign collaboration,” while state media and officials have denounced Washington’s warnings as hostile. :contentReference[oaicite:3]{index=3}

As the situation evolves, Trump’s administration maintains that the United States supports peaceful demonstrations and the fundamental rights of citizens worldwide. Vice President J.D. Vance reiterated this position, noting that Washington stands with peaceful protestors advocating for their freedoms. :contentReference[oaicite:4]{index=4}

Analysts say Trump’s declaration serves multiple strategic purposes: signaling resolve to protect human rights abroad, deterring violent crackdowns by Tehran, and reinforcing U.S. leadership against regimes that suppress dissent. Whether Iran’s authorities will heed the warning remains to be seen, but the message from Washington is clear — attacks on peaceful demonstrators will carry severe consequences.