U.S. President Donald Trump, regarding the possibility of U.S. military intervention in Iran as anti-government protests intensify there, said the administration is looking at "strong options" and "will make a decision."
On the 11th (local time), Trump, speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One traveling from Palm Beach, Fla., to Washington, D.C., said, "We are taking this matter very seriously," adding, "The military is also looking into it."
He added, "We are receiving reports on the situation in Iran every hour, and we will make a decision accordingly."
In Iran, anti-government protests sparked by a currency plunge and economic hardship have entered a second week. A heavy-handed crackdown by the government has left hundreds dead or injured.
In response, Trump has reportedly been briefed by government officials on military intervention options for Iran and is reviewing whether to carry them out.
Trump also indicated the possibility of talks, saying the Iranian government has proposed negotiations with the United States.
He said, "Iranian leaders called yesterday," adding, "They want to negotiate. They seem tired of getting hit by the United States over and over." He added, "We may have to act first, but talks are being prepared."
Regarding internet shutdowns in Iran, Trump added, "If possible, we could get the internet back up," and said he plans to speak with Elon Musk, the Tesla chief executive officer (CEO) who operates the Starlink satellite internet network.
Trump also said, regarding the situation in Venezuela following the arrest of President Nicolás Maduro, "We are working very well with the leadership there." He then hinted at the possibility of meeting Venezuelan opposition leader María Corina Machado on the 13th or 14th.
As for his statement on social media that he would block oil and funds flowing from Venezuela to Cuba, he said, "We are talking to Cuba, and we will know soon (what deal we will reach)."