Iran's streets have become a battlefield, with more than 2,500 people killed in a ferocious government crackdown on widespread anti-regime protests. U.S. President Donald Trump amplified the chaos today, telling demonstrators "help is on its way" in a bold social media message, while Iranian leaders accuse him of orchestrating the unrest.

The demonstrations began last fall, sparked by a collapsing rial, rampant inflation, and years of alleged corruption under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. Starting with merchants decrying currency devaluation, the movement exploded into calls for regime change across all 31 provinces, echoing the 2009 Green Movement. Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has urged protesters to seize institutions, drawing parallels to historic uprisings.

In a Truth Social post, Trump exhorted Iranians: "KEEP PROTESTING - TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! HELP IS ON ITS WAY." He threatened to halt U.S.-Iran talks and warned of severe consequences if executions follow, building on his administration's 2025 strikes against Iranian proxies and new tariffs on Tehran-trading nations. This marks a sharp escalation in Trump's post-reelection foreign policy.

Khamenei labeled protesters "foreign agents" funded by Trump, amid a nationwide internet blackout to curb dissent. Officials report over 2,000 deaths from "terrorist" clashes, though human rights monitors contest this, confirming dozens of civilian fatalities including children. Iran's UN envoy slammed Trump's words as deliberate sabotage, as security forces intensify operations.

This crisis outpaces the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests, fueled by Trump's regional moves like Venezuela interventions. Tehran treads a fine line between concessions and repression, risking further isolation if U.S. "help" – sanctions or aid – arrives. World leaders watch closely as allies like Russia urge restraint.

Disclaimer: This image is taken from Hindustan Times.