President Donald J. Trump issued a blunt warning to Iran’s ruling regime, stating that the United States would respond with overwhelming force if authorities continued shooting protesters during the country’s escalating unrest. Speaking about the demonstrations sweeping Iran, Trump said U.S. threats played a role in limiting the regime’s use of lethal force so far, even as the uprising intensifies.

“They started shooting the hell out of them,” Trump said, referring to Iranian security forces. “And I said if they do that, we’re going to hit them very hard. So far, for the most part, they haven’t.” Trump added that while deaths have occurred, many were the result of crowd stampedes rather than direct gunfire, underscoring the sheer scale and intensity of the protests.

The demonstrations erupted in late December 2025, triggered by economic collapse, soaring inflation, and a rapidly devaluing currency that has devastated household savings. By January 9, 2026, protests had spread nationwide, with crowds filling streets in Tehran and major cities across the country. Demonstrators have openly burned regime symbols and chanted for the overthrow of the Islamic Republic, signaling a direct challenge to Iran’s ruling system.

Authorities have responded with mass arrests, internet blackouts, and heavy security deployments in an attempt to contain the unrest. At least 45 people have been reported killed and more than 1,200 arrested as the regime struggles to regain control amid sustained public anger.

Trump described the momentum against Iran’s leadership as unprecedented. “The enthusiasm to overturn that regime is incredible,” he said, framing the protests as a popular uprising rather than isolated unrest. His remarks align with the administration’s broader posture of confronting authoritarian regimes while backing populations demanding freedom and accountability.

The warning reinforces a central message from Washington: violent crackdowns on civilians will carry consequences. As protests continue and pressure mounts on Iran’s leadership, Trump’s comments signal that the United States is closely watching events on the ground and is prepared to act if the regime escalates its response.