WASHINGTON — U.S. allies in the Middle East have advised the Trump administration to reconsider potential military actions against Iran. Concerns were raised following Tehran’s intense crackdown on recent protests, with officials from Egypt, Oman, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar fearing that a U.S. strike could destabilize the region and negatively impact the global economy.

These discussions arose over the past two days, revealing a delicate diplomatic situation as U.S.-Iran tensions escalated. A diplomat privy to the situation, who spoke on condition of anonymity, indicated that regional leaders are increasingly worried about the ramifications of a U.S. military response. The call for restraint comes amid a spike in oil prices, which dropped as the market reacted to President Donald Trump’s signaling of a potential shift in rhetoric regarding military strikes.

White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt emphasized that “all options remain on the table” concerning Iran, reflecting the unpredictability of Washington’s approach. Trump’s decision-making process, known for its opacity, is reportedly limited to a select group of advisers. Leavitt noted that Trump is continuously monitoring developments on the ground in Iran, underscoring the complexity of the situation.

Domestically, Iran has encountered widespread protests challenging its leadership, which have reportedly resulted in a staggering death toll of over 2,600 individuals. Activists claim a recent government media blackout has further stifled the demonstrations, heightening tensions within the country.

Adding to the uncertainty, Trump recently shifted his stance, expressing support for Iranian citizens while also suggesting that he possessed exclusive intelligence. His remarks included an abrupt claim that Iran had ceased its violent repression of protesters, a suggestion that contrasts starkly with ongoing reports from human rights organizations on the ground.

In response to U.S. military threats, Arab officials conveyed to Iranian leaders the potentially serious consequences of retaliatory measures. They warned that any aggressive actions targeting U.S. interests could lead to significant repercussions, a cautionary note that reflects the precarious nature of Middle Eastern geopolitics at this time.

During a briefing, Leavitt declined to address specifics about the calls from allies, demonstrating the sensitivity surrounding the ongoing dialogue. Ambassador Mike Waltz, representing the U.S. at the United Nations, maintained that military options are still viable, emphasizing Trump’s readiness to act decisively in response to the ongoing violence in Iran.

Meanwhile, a recent social media post by Trump highlighted a case involving a suspended death sentence for an Iranian protester, which he framed as a positive development. However, Iranian state media contested this narrative, reporting that judicial actions against protestors, including harsh treatment and allegations of propaganda, persist despite claims of halting executions.

Amid these developments, analysts believe that the Trump administration could be recalibrating its military posture. Notably absent from the area are U.S. aircraft carriers, critical assets for any significant military operations. Some experts speculate that the current U.S. stance may be a strategic delay while preparing the necessary force deployment.

On the sanctions front, the U.S. recently announced new measures against Iran. This includes penalties designated for key Iranian officials accused of inciting violence against protestors, alongside targeting entities linked to illicit financial activities connected to Iranian oil sales.

The unfolding events illustrate the fragile balance of power in the region, as the U.S. navigates a complex web of diplomatic relationships amid escalating domestic unrest in Iran.