Trump Says Iran’s Use of Human Shields ‘Totally Illegal’

07/04/2026

Human sheild protecting the power plant

WASHINGTON / TEHRAN, April 7: US President Donald Trump said it would be “totally illegal” for Iran to use civilians as human shields around critical infrastructure, amid escalating threats and mounting tensions.

Speaking in a phone interview with NBC News, Trump said Iran “can’t use its citizens as human shields,” referring to reports that civilians had gathered near key facilities, including power plants.

Iran’s state news agency IRNA released footage it said showed people forming human shields around a power plant, as a deadline set by Washington for Tehran to respond to US demands draws closer.

Trump, who has warned of potential strikes on Iran’s energy infrastructure and bridges, was also asked about his earlier remark that “a whole civilization will die tonight,” responding: “You’ll have to figure that out.”

The developments come as both rhetoric and military pressure intensify, raising fears of further escalation in the region.