Trump Briefed on Military and Covert Options as Iran Crisis Deepens

President Donald Trump has reportedly been briefed on a broad range of military and covert strategies that could be used against Iran, according to two US Department of Defense officials who spoke to CBS News, the BBC’s American partner.

The briefings reportedly included options such as long-distance missile operations, cyber warfare tactics, and psychological influence campaigns. These measures are being considered as tensions rise following weeks of deadly anti-government protests across Iran.

While long-range missile strikes remain a possible route should the United States decide to intervene, Pentagon planners have also outlined alternatives designed to disrupt Iran’s internal command systems and communication networks without immediate large-scale ground involvement.

The situation escalated further after President Trump announced a 25% tariff on goods imported from countries that maintain commercial relationships with Iran. The announcement came amid reports from human rights organisations indicating that over 600 protesters have been killed during nationwide demonstrations that have lasted more than three weeks.

Despite the growing pressure, Iran’s foreign minister has stated that Tehran remains open to dialogue with Washington. However, he also stressed that the country is fully prepared to defend itself should diplomatic efforts fail.

Sources say Trump’s national security team is expected to meet at the White House to evaluate the available options, although it remains uncertain whether the president will personally attend the meeting. Earlier statements from Trump suggested that the US military was reviewing “very strong measures” in response to continued violence against civilians.

Trump also claimed that Iranian officials had privately reached out in an attempt to negotiate, though he warned that action could come before any formal discussions take place if the situation deteriorates further.

Economic hardship has played a significant role in fuelling public unrest in Iran. The rapid collapse of the national currency, combined with long-standing economic mismanagement, has evolved into a broader political crisis that directly challenges the authority of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt confirmed that Iranian representatives had contacted Trump’s special envoy, Steve Witkoff. She noted that Iran’s private communications differ sharply from its public messaging, while reiterating that the US president remains willing to use military force if he believes it is necessary.

Defense officials further revealed that any potential US response would most likely rely on air power and advanced technological operations rather than ground troop deployment. American citizens currently in Iran have been urged to leave the country or prepare independent exit plans.

In response, Ayatollah Khamenei accused the United States of deception and interference, while praising pro-government demonstrations organised across several Iranian cities. State media broadcast images of large crowds supporting the regime, even as reports emerged that citizens were warned against participating in opposition protests.

Meanwhile, Trump reiterated on his Truth Social platform that the newly announced tariffs were final, though details on their implementation remain unclear. Analysts warn that the policy could intensify Iran’s economic struggles, particularly as food prices have already surged due to inflation and sanctions.

Iran relies heavily on food imports, and any further trade disruptions could worsen shortages and increase living costs for ordinary citizens. China remains Iran’s largest trading partner, followed by Iraq, the UAE, Turkey, and India.

Adding to the pressure, Reza Pahlavi—the son of Iran’s last monarch—has publicly urged Trump to act quickly to prevent further loss of life. Speaking to CBS News, he accused the current Iranian leadership of attempting to mislead the international community about its willingness to negotiate.

Human rights groups estimate that at least 648 protesters have been killed so far, including minors. Due to severe restrictions, an ongoing internet blackout, and the inability of foreign journalists to operate freely inside Iran, the true scale of the casualties may be significantly higher.