As of January 15, 2026, U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that plans for military action against Iran are currently on hold, citing reports that violence against protesters has ceased. This statement follows a period of intense scrutiny regarding Iran's response to widespread protests, which have reportedly resulted in over 2,400 deaths due to government crackdowns, according to human rights organizations.

The U.S. military has begun withdrawing personnel from key bases in the Middle East, including the Al Udeid airbase in Qatar, a move characterized as precautionary amid rising tensions. Approximately 100 British personnel have also been withdrawn from the same base. The U.S. Department of Defense has stated that these reductions are aimed at ensuring the safety of personnel in a volatile environment.

Iran has warned of potential retaliation against U.S. military installations in neighboring countries if military action is taken. The Iranian government has also denied reports of imminent executions of protesters, attributing the unrest to foreign interference and asserting that external actors are attempting to provoke U.S. military action.

The protests in Iran, which began in late December over economic grievances, have evolved into a broader challenge to the legitimacy of the clerical leadership. Reports indicate that over 18,400 protesters have been arrested since the unrest began, with the Iranian justice minister labeling participants as criminals.

In the context of these developments, the U.S. has requested an emergency meeting of the United Nations Security Council to address the situation, highlighting the international implications of the unrest and the potential for military escalation. Regional allies, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, have expressed concerns about the ramifications of a U.S. attack on Iran, advocating for dialogue over military confrontation.

Trump has encouraged Iranians to continue their protests, suggesting that U.S. support may be forthcoming. However, analysts caution that military intervention could lead to unintended consequences, including further destabilization of Iran and increased violence against protesters. Alternative strategies, such as cyber operations or financial disruptions, are being considered as potentially more effective means of supporting the Iranian populace without escalating military conflict.