Prominent Republican Senator Lindsey Graham declared on Saturday that the "long nightmare" of the Iranian people is nearing its end, promising that the regime's suppression will not go unanswered. This message was echoed by former President Donald Trump.
Through a post on the social media platform X, Graham addressed the Iranian citizens protesting against the Islamic regime, commending their "courage and determination" to end the oppression.
Graham explained that when Trump speaks of "Make Iran Great Again," he is advocating for the demonstrators to triumph over the ayatollahs, whom he described as incapable of leading the country to a future of freedom.
The senator emphasized that this statement serves as a clear indication that Trump recognizes Iran can never thrive as long as religious leaders hold power.
"To all those sacrificing in Iran, may God bless you. Help is on the way," Graham concluded, reaffirming his position as one of Washington's most influential figures in foreign policy and a close ally of the former president.
Trump amplified Graham's message by sharing it on his platform, Truth Social, a move interpreted as a direct warning to Tehran, noted by The New York Post.
The presidential backing followed Graham's warning that the regime's "brutality" against its own citizens will not be ignored by the U.S., marking a departure from previous administrations and reinforcing a confrontational stance.
These statements emerge amidst ongoing protests within Iran, which have been unfolding since late December. According to human rights organizations, the unrest has resulted in at least 72 fatalities and over 2,300 arrests.
Initially sparked by economic turmoil, the demonstrations have evolved into open calls against the regime and demands for political change.
In response, Iranian authorities have intensified their repressive rhetoric. General Prosecutor Mohammad Movahedi Azad cautioned that protest participants will be deemed "enemies of God," a crime punishable by death.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps labeled internal security a "red line" and attributed the unrest to "terrorists," vowing to defend the government system uncompromisingly.
Meanwhile, regional tensions have escalated. Recent days have seen significant movements of U.S. military aircraft to the Persian Gulf, while Iran has heightened its alert status with air defense and missile drills in several cities, including Tehran.
Although the Pentagon has not commented officially, the deployment underscores strategic pressure during a period of delicate balance.
From Washington, in addition to Graham, Secretary of State Marco Rubio has openly supported the Iranian protesters, describing them as "brave."
Trump, for his part, assured that the United States stands "ready to assist" the Iranian people, warning that further repression could provoke a more direct response.
As the Iranian regime accuses the U.S. of inciting disorder, the political messaging from the White House and key Republican figures bolsters a narrative of overt support for the demonstrators, potentially presenting one of the greatest challenges to the ayatollahs' power in years.
Understanding the U.S. Stance on Iranian Protests
What is Senator Lindsey Graham's position on the Iranian protests?
Senator Lindsey Graham supports the Iranian protests, expressing the belief that the regime's suppression will not go unanswered and stating that U.S. aid is forthcoming.
How has Donald Trump responded to the Iranian protests?
Donald Trump has echoed Graham's sentiments by sharing his message on Truth Social, signaling a warning to Tehran and showing support for the protestors.
What sparked the ongoing protests in Iran?
The protests in Iran were initially triggered by economic issues but have since evolved into demonstrations against the regime, with calls for political reform.
How have Iranian authorities responded to the protests?
Iranian authorities have increased their repressive measures, with warnings that protestors will be considered "enemies of God," a charge that carries the death penalty.