US President Donald Trump told reporters aboard Air Force One overnight Sunday into Monday that Iran was beginning to cross the "red line," according to the White House.
"There seem to be some people killed that aren't supposed to be killed... [these are] leaders who rule through violence," he responded to a reporter's question, adding that in response, the US is "examining very strong options, the military is examining them."
Beloved people of Iran, my courageous compatriots,
Over the past two weeks—especially in the last four days—you have shaken the foundations of the illegitimate Islamic Republic through massive, nationwide demonstrations. Now, relying on your overwhelming response to the recent… https://t.co/o5uEd7KHsY
— Reza Pahlavi (@PahlaviReza) January 11, 2026
The president revealed that the regime had reached out seeking negotiations over its nuclear program, saying: "Iran wants to negotiate, yes. We might meet with them. A meeting is being set up, but we may have to act because of what is happening before the meeting," Trump told the reporter. More than 530 people have been killed during the protests so far, with over 10,600 arrested. Among the dead, 490 were protesters, and 48 were security forces.
Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, the leader of the opposition, addressed the developments in a post on X: "Iran's freedom is near. The blood shed by Iran's immortal sons and daughters guides our path toward victory. We are not alone. International support will soon arrive."
On Sunday, Tehran threatened to attack Israel in retaliation for any US strikes on Iran.
