Trump freezes contacts with Tehran: US links dialogue to end of violence in Iran
13 January 21:28
US President Donald Trump said he had canceled all meetings with Iranian officials until the Iranian authorities stopped, in his words, “killing protesters.” The statement came amid escalating mass unrest in the Islamic Republic and a sharp escalation in rhetoric between Washington and Tehran, Komersant reports.
In a post on the social network Truth Social, Trump addressed Iranian protesters directly, urging them not to stop their rallies and demonstrations. He also promised that “help is on the way,” without specifying what kind of support he was referring to.
What happened in Iran
Protests in Iran have been ongoing since late December and have spread beyond Tehran to a number of other major cities. According to local and international media reports, as of January 13, the death toll on both sides had reached about 2,000.
The outbreak of discontent is linked to a sharp deterioration in the economic situation. The Iranian rial has fallen to a record low, and pressure on the economy has intensified after European countries reinstated sanctions in response to Tehran’s failure to comply with its nuclear commitments.
The US position and signs of escalation
The Trump administration is commenting on events in Iran in increasingly harsh terms. The president has already stated that the US may “come to the aid” of protesters if the violence by the authorities continues. American media have also reported that the White House is considering various scenarios, including possible military options.
Against this backdrop, the US State Department has urged American citizens to leave Iran immediately. The department warned of a “critical level of danger” due to mass unrest, internet blockages, road closures, and the suspension of air traffic. Americans are advised to leave by land via Armenia or Turkey, if possible.
Europe’s reaction
The escalating security situation has forced European countries to take action. France announced a partial evacuation of its embassy staff in Tehran. Paris stressed that the protection of diplomats and citizens is a priority, while assuring that the embassy continues to operate.
Earlier, Iran summoned the ambassadors of several European countries, including Germany, France, and Britain, accusing them of supporting anti-government protests.
