US President Donald Trump rejected Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s suggestion to call on Iranians to take to the streets to protest their government.
The decision was made following concerns that such action could trigger major violence against civilians.
In discussions between the two leaders, Netanyahu argued that the current internal situation in Iran is unstable and provides an opportunity to increase pressure on the regime. He sees the instability as an opportunity to weaken the Iranian government from within.
However, Trump is taking a more cautious approach by assessing the risks to the security of the people. He sees the call for protests as having the potential to lead to harsh action by the Iranian authorities, thus increasing the possibility of bloodshed.
This stance reflects the difference in strategy between Washington and Tel Aviv, with the United States more inclined to avoid escalation that could trigger a humanitarian crisis.
Earlier in January, Trump had voiced support for the protesters in Iran and urged them to continue to rise, while hinting that aid would be provided.
This change in tone reflects the current more cautious approach in dealing with the Iranian situation.
