Trump warns US will intervene if Iran kills protesters

Trump, on his Truth Social platform, said, “If Iran shoots and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are locked and loaded and ready to go.”

Iran issues strong warning to the US

In response, Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, warned that US interference would destabilise the region and harm American interests. Larijani also cautioned Trump to consider the safety of US troops.

Ali Shamkhani, adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, called Iran’s security a “red line” and said any foreign intervention would face retaliation.

Protests spread across Iran

Demonstrations erupted in multiple Iranian cities following economic hardships and high prices, with shopkeepers striking in Tehran and protests expanding to political demands.

Clashes between security forces and protesters on Thursday left six dead, including two in Lordegan, three in Azna, and a member of the security forces in Kouhdasht. Iranian media reported unrest in 15 cities, mainly in western provinces.

Government response and legal measures

While some Iranian leaders, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, acknowledged the legitimacy of protests over economic struggles, authorities have warned of a strict crackdown.

Ali Hasavand, Lorestan prosecutor, stated that participation in “illegal gatherings” and actions threatening public order will face the “greatest firmness” from the courts. He emphasized that the justice system and police would act decisively against anyone undermining public security.

Economic struggles fuel unrest

Iran’s economy has been hit by years of international sanctions, rampant inflation, and a collapsing currency. Regional setbacks, including losses in Gaza, Lebanon, and Syria, have further weakened the country, intensifying public frustration.