Kathmandu— US President Donald Trump has escalated tensions with Iran, threatening to bomb the nation’s infrastructure and cut off electricity for its entire population of 91 million. This illegal threat under international law highlights a growing trend of authoritarian tactics by the Trump administration, including intimidation of political opponents and suppression of free speech.

Threatening War Crimes

In an interview with Fox News, President Trump threatened to bomb all of Iran’s bridges and power plants, explicitly stating that this would leave the nation's population without electricity. This threat violates international law, including the Geneva Conventions, which prohibit collective punishment against civilian populations.

Intimidating Political Opponents

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio released a 100-page report accusing Cuba of directing radical left-wing terrorism in the US. The document names over 40 liberal and leftist politicians, influencers, and groups as tools of Cuba’s alleged campaign against the US, presenting no serious evidence for these claims.

Suppressing Free Speech

The Trump administration has subpoenaed Breakthrough News (BN), demanding financial records and internal communications. BN is being investigated for its coverage of ICE kidnappings and killings, as well as Israel’s genocide in Gaza, under the absurd accusation of ‘anti-American rhetoric.’

Human Rights Violations

A new ACLU report reveals civil rights violations committed by ICE and deputized police forces. The report documents over 1,200 incidents in eight states in 2025, highlighting methods and tactics that lead to serious civil rights abuses at a scale unprecedented in recent history.

(With inputs from CounterPunch)

Originally published on abcnews.com.np.