In a video statement released on February 28, 2026, President Donald Trump called on the people of Iran to take advantage of the ongoing large-scale attacks in their country to overthrow the religious leadership’s rule. He told Iranians, “When we are done, take over your government. It will be yours to take,” describing it as possibly their only opportunity in generations. Trump also warned members of Iran’s security forces that they would face “certain death” if they did not lay down their arms, but would be granted “freedom” if they surrendered.

Earlier in January, human rights activists claimed that at least 6,480 people had been killed in a harsh crackdown on anti-government protests across Iran. Following those reports, Trump had threatened Iran with bombing, warning that those responsible would “pay a heavy price,” while assuring protesters that “help is on the way.”

A few days later, Trump stated that Iran’s government had assured him the killings had stopped, and his attention shifted toward Iran’s nuclear program, a long-standing point of contention with Western nations.