Trump Leans Toward Strikes on Iran Amid Protests, but Vance Pushes for Diplomacy First

WASHINGTON D.C (VINnews) — President Trump is currently leaning toward authorizing military strikes against Iran in response to the regime’s deadly crackdown on widespread anti-government protests, but Vice President JD Vance is leading a push within the administration to pursue diplomacy before any action, according to U.S. officials cited by The Wall Street Journal.

Trump is scheduled to meet with senior aides Tuesday to discuss options and make a final decision, sources told the Journal. The White House has not confirmed the meeting’s details, but press secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that “diplomacy is always the first option” for the president, while airstrikes remain among “many, many options” on the table.

The unrest in Iran, now in its second week, stems from economic hardship and regime repression, with rights groups reporting hundreds of protester deaths in the crackdown. Iran’s proxies, including Hamas and Hezbollah, have been significantly weakened in recent regional conflicts, and the country’s economy continues to deteriorate.

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed over the weekend that he contacted Trump’s special envoy Steve Witkoff to discuss the situation, stating that Tehran is “ready for negotiations” on issues including its nuclear program but remains “fully prepared for war.” Araghchi described the communication channel as open, with messages exchanged as needed, and indicated that a possible meeting is under discussion.

Trump, speaking to reporters Sunday aboard Air Force One, said Iran had reached out seeking talks, adding that “a meeting is being set up” but warning that the U.S. may need to act first due to the ongoing violence. He has previously threatened “very strong” measures if the regime continues killing demonstrators.

Some administration officials worry that U.S. or joint strikes could backfire by fueling regime propaganda claiming foreign interference — including by the U.S. and Israel — is behind the protests, potentially rallying public support for the government.

Trump’s consideration comes months after U.S. forces, in coordination with Israel, struck key Iranian nuclear facilities in June 2025, setting back Tehran’s program.

The president has described the current moment as a potential turning point for Iranian freedom, posting on social media that “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!”

No final decision has been announced, and officials say Trump could shift course based on developments inside Iran or further discussions with aides.