Rubio supported Iranians, Trump warned the country's leadership
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for Iranians on Saturday after Iranian authorities disconnected the country from the internet in an attempt to curb anti-government protests spreading across the country. "The United States stands with the brave people of Iran," Rubio wrote on social media.
The situation in Iran escalated after security forces cracked down on demonstrators and the regime proceeded with a nationwide internet shutdown. According to Reuters, the protests began in late December and are among the largest in recent years.
US President Donald Trump also weighed in on the situation. On Friday, he issued a new warning to the Iranian leadership and hinted at possible retaliation if the regime used live ammunition against the protesters. "You better not start shooting, because then we will start shooting too," Trump told reporters.
(reuters, lud)