U.S. Confirms Naval Build-Up to Iran as Protest Death Toll Surpasses 5,000
WASHINGTON : U.S. President Donald Trump confirmed Thursday that a significant naval force is being deployed toward Iran, as reports indicate the death toll from Tehran’s nationwide crackdown on anti-government protests has risen to more than 5,000.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported Friday that 4,716 demonstrators, 203 government-affiliated individuals, 43 children, and 40 civilians not involved in protests had been killed. More than 26,800 people have reportedly been detained in the widening arrest campaign. HRANA warned the true death toll could be higher due to restricted information access following a nationwide internet blackout imposed by Iranian authorities on January 8.
Iran’s government released its first official toll Wednesday, claiming 3,117 deaths, including 2,427 civilians and security personnel, with the remainder described as “terrorists.” Independent verification of both figures has been hampered by near-total internet shutdowns.
Trump made his naval announcement aboard Air Force One after meetings in Davos, Switzerland, stressing that military action was not his preferred course but confirming that U.S. forces were deployed as a precaution. “I’d rather not see anything happen, but we’re watching them very closely. We have a big flotilla going in that direction, just in case,” he said.
Trump reiterated concerns over Iran’s nuclear program, warning of potential U.S. action if Tehran resumes nuclear activity. The USS Abraham Lincoln and its strike group have reportedly been redirected from South China Sea exercises to the Middle East, with additional air defense systems under consideration to protect regional bases.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the U.S. and Israel of fuelling the unrest, calling it a “cowardly revenge” for their “defeat” in the 12-day war of June 2025.
