U.S. President Donald Trump is weighing military options against Iran that could include targeted strikes on security forces and senior leaders in an effort to reignite mass protests and weaken the Islamic Republic, multiple sources told Reuters.

Axar.az, citing Reuters, reports that the discussions follow a deadly crackdown that crushed nationwide demonstrations earlier this month, killing thousands.

According to U.S. sources, Trump is considering limited strikes aimed at boosting protesters’ confidence, as well as broader attacks on Iran’s ballistic missile capabilities or nuclear facilities. No final decision has been made. Meanwhile, Iran is preparing for possible military confrontation while still pursuing diplomatic channels, officials said.

Israeli and Arab officials cautioned that airstrikes alone are unlikely to topple the regime, warning that military action could backfire, strengthen the Revolutionary Guard, or plunge Iran into instability similar to Iraq or Syria. Regional allies fear retaliation, regional spillover, and disruption to global oil flows if conflict escalates.