Overview
- In an ABC interview, Sen. Rand Paul said bombing Iran would likely backfire by rallying citizens to the regime and declared it is not the answer.
- Paul maintained that presidents must seek authorization from Congress before ordering strikes, emphasizing limits on unilateral war powers.
- President Trump warned Iran not to kill protesters, said the United States is ready to help, and was recently briefed on possible strike options.
- Republican voices are split, with Sen. Lindsey Graham pressing for more direct U.S. support and exiled figure Reza Pahlavi urging intervention, while the NCRI opposes U.S. military action.
- Protests across Iran continue with reports of mass arrests, restricted internet access and hundreds of deaths, though precise casualty figures remain unconfirmed.