US President Trump warned on Friday that the United States could intervene if security forces in Iran fire on protesters. His comments came as demonstrations over inflation and economic hardship have left several people dead.
In a social media post, Trump said, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go.” The remarks follow US strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities in June, conducted alongside Israel to target Tehran’s atomic program and military leadership.
Top Iranian official Ali Larijani responded sharply. He warned that US interference in domestic Iranian issues could destabilize the entire region. Iran continues to support allied groups in Lebanon, Iraq, and Yemen.
Local authorities in western Iran, where the protests have been most intense, warned that any illegal gatherings would be met “decisively and without leniency.” This statement raised concerns about potential escalation.
Largest Protests in Years
The demonstrations are the largest in three years, spreading across western provinces including Lorestan and Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari. Protesters are demanding relief from soaring inflation, while clashes with security forces have turned deadly. State media and rights groups report at least six deaths since Wednesday, including a member of the Basij paramilitary.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has called for dialogue with protest leaders. He admitted government failings contributed to the crisis and emphasized domestic responsibility. “We are to blame… It is us who must find a solution,” he said.
Economic challenges have worsened tensions. Deregulation of some currency exchange measures caused the Iranian rial to decline sharply. Inflation remains above 36%, compounded by Western sanctions and regional conflicts.
Killings and Arrests
Rights groups reported 29 arrests, including women, children, and ethnic minorities. Law enforcement has detained several “disruptive individuals” in Lorestan and Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari provinces. Fars News Agency reported three protesters killed and 17 injured during an attack on a police station.
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Trump’s warning highlights the international attention on Iran’s ongoing unrest. The protests mark the biggest challenge to Iranian authorities since 2022, with both domestic and foreign pressures mounting.
