🚨 In a dramatic move on Tuesday, Jan. 13, U.S. President Donald Trump announced he is canceling all meetings with Iranian officials, intensifying tensions between Washington and Tehran.
Speaking to supporters, Trump urged what he called 'Iranian patriots' to continue their demonstrations, promising that help is on the way. The president's statement came just one day after he warned that any nation trading with Iran would face a 25% tariff on U.S. imports.
Meanwhile, Iran's Public Security Police Chief, Seyed Majid Feiz Jafari, reported that authorities have detained 297 individuals labeled as 'thugs' linked to recent 'riots' across the country. The crackdown echoes the government's strict response to the protests that have swept Iran in recent days.
Trump has also hinted that military action remains on the table to punish Iran over the unrest, marking one of the toughest stances the U.S. administration has taken toward the Middle Eastern nation in 2026.
In response to the growing instability, the U.S. State Department issued an urgent travel advisory on Tuesday, urging American citizens in Iran to leave immediately ✈️. Options include overland routes through Türkiye or Armenia, highlighting concerns over safety for foreign nationals amid these protests.
The recent developments represent a significant escalation in U.S.-Iran relations, with both sides signaling they are ready to push forward in 2026. Observers are watching closely to see how Tehran will respond to these mounting pressures from Washington.
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Trump cancels talks with Iran, 297 'thugs' detained during protests
cgtn.com
