Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleDonald Trump is reportedly "ready to push the button" on military strikes against Iran, following weeks of widespread protests against the ayatollah’s regime that have reportedly claimed over 2,500 lives. US intervention is considered "imminent," with sources suggesting strikes could occur within 24 hours, prompting the withdrawal of US and UK personnel from Middle East bases, including Al-Udeid in Qatar. Trump is reportedly delaying action, hoping for the collapse of Iranian banks to destabilise the regime, while plans are being drawn up for an interim government should the current regime fall. Iran has issued warnings to neighbouring countries, stating it would strike American bases in the region if Trump orders military action against the Islamic Republic. The protests have led to a reported death toll of 2,571 and 18,137 arrests, with Trump vowing "very strong action" if protesters are executed, as the fate of one individual, Erfan Soltani, remains unclear. In fullTrump ‘ready to push the button’ on airstrikes in Iran as US personnel evacuate military baseThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in