'Thank You!' Trump Acknowledges Iran for Suspending Protester Hangings

Washington: US President Donald Trump on Friday publicly praised Iran's leadership at a time when tensions in the Middle East remained at their peak. Trump had said that the Iranian government has canceled plans to execute hundreds of people arrested after protests across the country. He called it a “positive and bold step” and thanked the Iranian leadership for it on social media.

What did Trump say about Iran?

Trump had written on his social media platform, Truth Social, that he had received information that the execution of more than 800 people had been stopped. He had said in the post that this decision was to be implemented a day earlier but was canceled at the last moment. Trump had thanked Iran's leadership, calling it a "decent decision worthy of respect."

Did this avert America's military action?

A few days before this statement, Trump had indicated that the incidents of violence in Iran were decreasing. After this, the fear of direct military action from America was weakened to some extent. However, according to US defense agencies, military activities in the area had not completely stopped and the situation still remained extremely sensitive.

Who was talking behind the curtain?

During this entire incident, the Gulf countries played an active role at the diplomatic level. Saudi Arabia and Qatar had warned America that if Iran was attacked, its impact would spread throughout the region, and in the end America might have to bear the loss. These countries had continuously insisted on adopting the path of dialogue to reduce tension.

Why was Israel's concern increased?

Israel was also keeping a close eye on the situation. Its intelligence agency chief David Barnia had reached Washington, where high-level talks were held regarding Iran. At the same time, the Israeli Army had said that its army is in a “fully alert and ready” state.

What warning did the White House give to Iran?

The White House had said a day earlier that Trump and his national security team had given a clear message to Iran that if there was further bloodshed, there would be "serious consequences." It was also said that America is considering every option.

How did the protests start?

Small-scale demonstrations began in Iran on December 28 against inflation and economic distress, which gradually turned into an anti-government movement. At the end of last week, the situation went out of control, and there was heavy violence in many parts of the country for three days.

How much damage has been done so far?

According to opposition organizations and Iranian officials, more than 2,000 people have died in these clashes. This is being considered as Iran's biggest internal crisis after the Islamic Revolution of 1979.