US President Donald Trump has called on Iranians to continue protesting against their government, saying “help is on its way.” He urged protesters to take note of the names of those responsible for killings and abuses.

Trump cancelled meetings with Iranian officials until the violent crackdown on protesters stops.

Thousands of people are feared dead after weeks of anti-government protests. Human rights groups estimate around 1,847 protesters have died, including children and security personnel.

Iranian authorities have sentenced some protesters to death. One, 26-year-old Erfan Soltani, is reportedly due to be executed on Jan 14. Families say the process is fast, raising fears of execution without notice.

Iranian security forces also seized a large shipment of Starlink satellite internet kits, alleging they were intended for espionage and sabotage. Use of Starlink devices is illegal in Iran, and internet blackouts are ongoing.

Meanwhile, the UK government has summoned the Iranian ambassador over the crackdown. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper called the violence “the most brutal and bloody repression against public protests in Iran for at least 13 years” and said the UK plans to push for further sanctions in coordination with the EU and the UN.

Trump’s threats have drawn criticism from Iran’s officials and Russia. Ali Larijani, adviser to Iran’s Supreme Leader, blamed Trump for protest deaths. Russia’s foreign ministry called US threats of strikes “categorically unacceptable” and warned of serious consequences in the Middle East.

The White House said Trump’s national security team is discussing possible options for intervention in Iran. It is unclear what kind of “help” the president intends or when it might come.

Economic sanctions are also escalating. Trump announced a 25% US tariff on trade with Iran’s partners. Analysts warn enforcement may be difficult, and secondary sanctions could further harm Iran’s struggling economy, already affected by inflation, reduced oil exports, and trade restrictions.

Internet blackouts and censorship continue to make verification of events inside Iran difficult. Human rights groups say the shutdowns violate international law and limit the ability to document abuses.

The protests and international response highlight growing tension over Iran’s human rights record, economic crisis, and geopolitical position.

With inputs from BBC