Iran has issued a stark warning to the United States, threatening a severe response if Washington intervenes in the ongoing protests within the Islamic republic. The warning came directly from a top security official after former US President Donald Trump suggested America would aid the demonstrators.
Top Iranian Official Draws a 'Red Line'
Ali Shamkhani, a key adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, delivered the warning on social media platform X on Friday. He stated unequivocally that Iran's security is a non-negotiable boundary. "Any intervening hand-nearing Iran security on pretexts will be cut off with a regret-inducing response," Shamkhani wrote. He further invoked historical grievances, suggesting Iranians are all too familiar with American 'rescue' efforts, pointing to conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, and Gaza.
Trump's 'Locked and Loaded' Remark Sparks Fury
The Iranian warning was a direct counter to statements made by former US President Donald Trump. On his Truth Social platform, Trump had cautioned Tehran against using violence on peaceful protesters. He declared that if Iran "violently kills peaceful protesters," the United States would "come to their rescue," adding that Washington was "locked and loaded."
These exchanges have escalated tensions as protests over severe economic hardship enter their sixth day. The unrest, reported across several Iranian provinces, was triggered by a collapsing currency, soaring prices, and worsening living conditions. According to the AP news agency, while the protests are largely driven by economic grievances, chants critical of Iran's ruling system have also been heard.
Accusations of Foreign Mediation and Regional Warnings
Iranian authorities have been quick to blame external forces for the turmoil. Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, accused the US and Israel of stoking the demonstrations. In a post on X, he warned that American intervention would not be contained. "Trump must realise that United States intervention in this internal matter will lead to destabilising the entire region and destroying American interests," Larijani wrote.
The current wave of protests marks the most significant unrest since the 2022 nationwide demonstrations that followed the death of Mahsa Amini in police custody. The situation remains volatile, with at least seven people reported killed in violence linked to the protests so far.
