Overview
- Trump announced 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Tehran, his first punitive step tied to the protest crackdown.
- Officials say Iranian private messages differ from public threats, and a meeting is being explored even as Trump warns he could act first.
- Senior advisers are set to brief the president Tuesday on options that include airstrikes, cyber operations, additional sanctions, and efforts to restore internet access.
- Regional commanders have urged more time to consolidate defenses, and the military is described as on standby rather than preparing immediate strikes.
- Rights groups report more than 500 deaths and thousands detained under a nationwide internet blackout, as Iran warns U.S. bases and Israel would be treated as legitimate targets if attacked.