In a dramatic escalation of tensions, the United States has issued a stern warning to Iran during an emergency United Nations Security Council meeting in New York on January 15, 2026. Convened at Washington's request, the session delivered a clear message: "all options are on the table" to halt Iran's violent suppression of anti-government protests. US Ambassador to the UN, Mike Waltz, underscored President Donald Trump's readiness for decisive action, declaring, "President Trump is a man of action, not endless talk," and emphasized that he has made it clear all options are open to stop the "slaughter."

The protests in Iran, which erupted in late December 2026, were sparked by severe economic distress, including rampant inflation, soaring food prices, and a drastic devaluation of the rial. The government's response has been notably violent, with the Human Rights Activists News Agency reporting at least 2,677 deaths. Other estimates suggest casualties could exceed 12,000, with numerous injuries and detentions. The regime's crackdown has included a communication blackout and reports of security forces raiding hospitals to seize wounded protesters, further complicating an already dire humanitarian situation.

The international community has responded with condemnation and calls for accountability. The United Nations has urged independent investigations into the killings and opposed the use of the death penalty against demonstrators. The UN's appeal for "maximum restraint" highlights global alarm over potential further bloodshed and the broader implications for regional stability.

Iran's Deputy Ambassador to the UN, Hossein Darzi, countered the US accusations by alleging hypocrisy, charging that America is exploiting the situation under the guise of humanitarian concern to justify potential destabilization and military intervention. This exchange reflects the deep-seated mistrust between Tehran and Washington, which has only intensified in recent weeks.

In response to the Iranian regime's actions, Washington has imposed new sanctions targeting key Iranian officials, including the Secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security, accused of orchestrating the violent crackdown. These sanctions form part of a broader strategy to pressure Tehran while signaling American resolve.

Despite the harsh rhetoric, hints of potential de-escalation have emerged. President Trump has suggested that the killings might have ceased, based on intelligence reports, although the protests themselves appear to have been forcibly subdued. Meanwhile, Kurdish opposition leaders have expressed a willingness to rise against the regime or support US strikes, should they occur, highlighting the volatile and multifaceted nature of the opposition within Iran.

The emergency UN Security Council session underscored the gravity of the situation in Iran and the potential for broader international involvement. With the world watching closely, the stakes remain high. The US's readiness to consider "all options" puts the burden on Tehran to navigate this crisis carefully, balancing internal pressures against mounting international scrutiny. The coming days will be critical in determining whether diplomatic efforts can prevail over the specter of military intervention.