US President Donald Trump has issued a renewed and stern warning to Iran, saying the United States could carry out a “very powerful” attack if Iranian authorities kill more protesters during ongoing nationwide demonstrations.

The protests have entered their second week, driven by surging inflation, a deepening economic crisis, and the sharp collapse of the Iranian rial. Growing financial pressure has pushed thousands of Iranians onto the streets, expressing anger over rising prices and worsening living conditions.

Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said Washington was closely monitoring developments in Iran. He warned that continued use of force against demonstrators by the Iranian government would provoke a strong response from the United States.

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“America is watching this situation very carefully,” Trump said, adding that any further deaths of protesters could lead to severe consequences for Tehran.

The demonstrations began on December 28 following a strike by shopkeepers in Tehran and quickly spread to other cities. According to official Iranian figures, at least 12 people, including security personnel, have been killed so far during protest-related violence.

Analysts describe the current unrest as one of the largest and most intense protest movements Iran has seen in years. Some observers say the scale and momentum of the demonstrations exceed even the 2022–2023 protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, which led to prolonged nationwide unrest.

Trump’s warning has further heightened US-Iran tensions, as Tehran faces mounting domestic pressure and growing international scrutiny over its handling of dissent amid a worsening economic landscape.