Tensions between the United States and Iran have significantly escalated in January 2026, primarily fueled by widespread anti-government protests across Iran. These demonstrations were reportedly triggered by a collapsing currency and record-high inflation, leading to a brutal crackdown by Iranian authorities that has resulted in thousands of deaths. US President Donald Trump has taken a strong stance, threatening 'very strong action' if Iran continues to execute protesters and leaving unclear the full scope of potential US responses. In response, the US Treasury Department has already imposed sanctions on key Iranian leaders accused of involvement in the violent suppression of these protests. Among those sanctioned is Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme Council for National Security, cited as an early advocate for violence against the protesters. Iran, in turn, has issued explicit threats against President Trump, with state television airing warnings that included clips of a 2024 assassination attempt against him in Pennsylvania. This assassination attempt, which occurred on July 13, 2024, at a rally near Butler, Pennsylvania, saw Trump wounded and one attendee killed, an event corroborated by multiple sources. The broader geopolitical situation remains volatile, with the UN Security Council having scheduled an emergency meeting at the US's request to discuss the deadly Iranian protests. For India, the escalating crisis has prompted action, with the government reportedly preparing to facilitate the return of Indian nationals from Iran, highlighting the global impact and concerns arising from the deepening US-Iran tensions and internal unrest.