US President Donald Trump on January 13 announced the cancellation of planned talks with Iranian officials, citing Tehran’s violent crackdown on nationwide protests. In a message directed at the Iranian public, Trump said “help is on its way,” though he did not specify what form that assistance would take.
The decision comes amid growing international concern over Iran’s handling of widespread demonstrations, which human rights monitors say have resulted in more than 2,000 deaths following a severe security response by Iranian authorities. The protests, sparked by political and economic grievances, have spread across several cities, prompting mass arrests and reports of lethal force against demonstrators.
Earlier, Trump had said that Iran was seeking to reopen negotiations with Washington after he threatened possible military action against the Islamic Republic. His latest remarks, however, suggest a sharp shift in tone, signaling that the US is unwilling to pursue dialogue while the Iranian government continues its crackdown on dissent.
Analysts say Trump’s statement to Iranian citizens may be aimed at exerting psychological and diplomatic pressure on Tehran while seeking to position the United States as supportive of popular demands for change. Still, the lack of clarity over what “help” entails has raised questions about whether Washington is considering new sanctions, diplomatic initiatives, or other forms of intervention.
FRANCE 24 correspondent Kethevane Gorjestani reports that the escalating rhetoric further complicates an already fragile relationship between the two countries, with tensions likely to remain high as protests continue and international scrutiny intensifies.
