US urges citizens to leave Iran immediately as protests escalate

Human Rights Watch Executive Director Philippe Bolopion warned on Monday of an emergency in Iran, saying authorities have imposed a near-total internet blackout to conceal “very concerning reports of large-scale killings by security forces of protesters.”

“We are also extremely worried for people detained in the last week, who are being accused by the authorities of being enemies of God, which in Iran carries the death penalty,” Bolopion posted on X.

“We think it’s really an emergency situation, and we call on the UN Security Council and the Human Rights Council to urgently discuss the situation and send a very strong message to the leadership in Iran that they will be held accountable,” he added.

US Senator Lindsey Graham commended President Trump’s 25% tariffs on countries doing business with Iran, calling them impressive and urging targeted military strikes against the Islamic Republic.

“Mr. President: your decisive leadership in isolating this regime economically through your actions today is most impressive. Your promise to have the protesters’ back and put the regime on notice that you will not tolerate the killing has led to the largest outpouring of demonstrators against this fanatical regime since its founding,” Republican Senator from South Carolina posted on X.

“Mr. President: I believe the Iranian regime has crossed red lines. They are killing their people in large numbers and mocking your leadership. It is now time to take decisive military action—no boots on the ground—going after those who do the killing,” Graham added. “Make Iran Great Again.”

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Monday called the ongoing protests in Iran an "uprising" and a sign that Russia will face greater difficulties.

“What is currently happening in Iran, including the widespread protests, is in fact an uprising, and it is also a clear sign that it will not be easier for Russia,” Zelenskyy posted in Persian on X.

“It is important that the world does not miss this moment, when change is possible. And every leader, every country, international organizations must now get involved and help the people eliminate those who are responsible, which unfortunately Iran has been in this way. Everything could be different," he added.

EU Council President António Costa on Monday urged the government of Iran to halt violent repression against protestors.

"The Iranian regime must stop the violent repression of its own people," Costa posted on X. "We stand with the brave Iranians demanding basic rights, dignity, and freedom."

"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," US President Donald Trump announced in a post on his Truth Social.

"This Order is final and conclusive."

Iran is already internationally isolated under sweeping sanctions imposed by the United States, the United Nations, and the European Union.