Trump himself did not attend the initial meeting but has been vocal publicly. In a post on social media, he urged demonstrators to continue their efforts, writing, “Iranian Patriots, KEEP PROTESTING – TAKE OVER YOUR INSTITUTIONS!!! Save the names of the killers and abusers. They will pay a big price.”
He added, “I have cancelled all meetings with Iranian Officials until the senseless killing of protesters STOPS. HELP IS ON ITS WAY.” When pressed by reporters in Michigan on what that help might entail, Trump replied, “You’re gonna have to figure that one out, I’m sorry.”
Sanctions, Tariffs, and Military Options on the Table
On Monday, Trump announced a sweeping new economic measure: a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran. “Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America,” Trump wrote. “This Order is final and conclusive.”
China, one of Tehran’s key trading partners, pushed back. Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said, “There are no winners in a tariff war,” adding that Beijing supports Iran in maintaining national stability and opposes foreign interference.
