Foreign Minister Labels Trump’s Iran Protest Warning ‘Reckless’
Recent comments by U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the unrest in Iran have been deemed “reckless” by Iranian officials. Trump suggested that if Iran resorts to violence against peaceful protesters, the United States would intervene, though he did not detail the potential actions.
Spreading Protests and Violence in Iran
The protests in Iran began in Tehran, largely fueled by frustration over a dramatic drop in the value of the rial against the U.S. dollar. This economic distress has sparked unrest across multiple cities. As the situation escalated, demonstrators voiced their opposition to the country’s clerical leadership.
Casualties Reported
As clashes erupted between security forces and protesters, fatalities were reported in several regions. According to Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency and the human rights organization Hengaw, at least:
- Two protesters were killed in Lordegan, named Ahmad Jalil and Sajjad Valamanesh.
- Three deaths occurred in Azna.
- One individual died in Kouhdasht.
- Another death was reported in Fuladshahr.
- Additionally, one casualty was noted in Marvdasht.
The precise identities of those killed have not been verified, with uncertainty regarding whether they were demonstrators or security personnel.
Government Stance on Protests
In response to the escalating protests, Iran’s police spokesperson stated that authorities would not permit “enemies” to exacerbate the turmoil. Iranian Deputy Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi criticized Trump, asserting that he should understand that attacks on public property cannot be tolerated, given his own deployment of the National Guard within the United States.
This ongoing unrest highlights the brewing tensions in Iran as citizens express their grievances against both economic hardship and government authority.
