Iran Rebukes Trump's 'Reckless' Threat Amid Nationwide Protests

Iran's Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, has issued a stern condemnation of US President Donald Trump's recent remarks suggesting potential American intervention if peaceful protesters in Iran are harmed. Araghchi labeled Trump's comments as "reckless and dangerous," referring specifically to the US leader's social media declaration: "We are locked and loaded and ready to go," where he vowed that the United States would "come to the rescue" of protesters facing Iran’s economic crisis.

He further asserted that Iran's military is on high alert, equipped and ready, emphasizing they "know precisely where to target" if any aggression occurs. Araghchi also criticized Trump's enforcement methods within the US, mentioning the deployment of the National Guard to manage civil disturbances, and cautioned that "criminal attacks on public property cannot be tolerated." He made it clear that any outside interference would encounter firm resistance from Iran.

The demonstrations, ignited in Tehran due to the plummeting value of the Iranian rial, have led to substantial economic turmoil for the populace. In the last week, protests have erupted in various cities nationwide, resulting in clashes between security personnel and demonstrators. Official reports indicate at least eight fatalities amid these disturbances, although independent oversight is challenging.

These protests signal the largest wave of dissent since the uprising in 2022, following the death of Mahsa Amini in the custody of morality police. While the current protests may not rival that earlier movement in scale, they highlight significant dissatisfaction among the public. Iranian officials, including President Masoud Pezeshkian, have committed to addressing the protesters' "legitimate demands." In contrast, Prosecutor General Mohammad Movahedi-Azad has issued a stern warning against actions deemed harmful to national stability, promising a "decisive response."

In a bid to attract global attention, Iran’s UN Ambassador, Amir-Saeid Iravani, has addressed the UN Security Council, urging condemnation of Trump's threatening words. He accused the United States of bearing "full responsibility" for any outcomes stemming from these "unlawful threats" and for the potential escalation of tensions.

As the nation anticipates more protests, the international community observes closely, amid rising concerns about conflict instigated by external interference.