Trump Warns Iran: 'Hit Them Very Hard' If Protests Crackdown Escalates

• US President Donald Trump threatened a "very hard" response if Iran's leadership escalates its crackdown on nationwide protests and starts killing demonstrators.
• Iran is experiencing its largest wave of protests in three years, driven by a worsening economic crisis, soaring inflation, and international sanctions pressure.
• Human rights activists report at least 45 deaths in clashes, with protests spreading across multiple cities including Tehran, Mashhad, and Isfahan.
• A nationwide internet blackout was imposed in Iran, a tactic historically used during security crackdowns to control information and suppress dissent.
• Exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi urged Iranians to continue protests, with reports of pro-Pahlavi slogans heard in several towns.

Why It Matters: Trump warns Iran of severe retaliation if protest crackdown intensifies, as unrest spreads nationwide.