Trump Cancels Talks with Iran Amid Protests, Pledges Support to Demonstrators

President Donald Trump announced on Tuesday the cancellation of all meetings with Iranian officials, citing the violent suppression of protests in Iran that have resulted in over 2,000 deaths. In a post on Truth Social, Trump urged Iranian citizens to continue their resistance, stating, "Help is on its way," though he did not specify the nature of the assistance.

The protests, which began on December 28, 2025, over economic grievances, have escalated into widespread calls for the resignation of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, the death toll has surpassed 2,000, including 1,850 protesters and 135 government-affiliated individuals. Over 16,700 people have been detained.

Trump's recent statements mark a shift from earlier indications that Iran sought negotiations with Washington. The president emphasized his readiness to use military force if necessary and announced immediate 25% tariffs on countries conducting business with Tehran, though details of this action have not been provided.

In response, Iranian officials have warned that U.S. and Israeli forces could become targets if intervention occurs. The unrest in Iran, triggered by economic collapse, has led to massive nationwide protests—the largest since the 1979 revolution—challenging the regime of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.