Iran
This is a locator map for Iran with its capital, Tehran.
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U.S. President Donald Trump and top Iranian officials have exchanged dueling threats as widening economic protests sweep across parts of the Islamic Republic. Trump initially wrote on his Truth Social platform, warning Iran that if it “violently kills peaceful protesters,” the United States “will come to their rescue.” At least eight people have been killed so far in violence surrounding demonstrations. Trump wrote, “We are locked and loaded and ready to go." Shortly after, Ali Larijani, the secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, said U.S. intervention would lead to “chaos in the entire region and the destruction of the U.S. interests.”
Iran’s supreme leader has addressed the ongoing protests, insisting that “rioters must be put in their place.” His comments may signal a more aggressive approach by authorities. The protests, sparked by Iran’s struggling economy, have been going on for a week. On Saturday, violence surrounding the demonstrations killed more people, raising the death toll to at least 15. The protests are the largest since 2022. Iran’s government has signaled a willingness to negotiate, but economic challenges persist.
Protests in Iran have continued despite threats from the government to crack down. Online videos show demonstrators protesting Friday night, even after authorities shut down the internet and cut phone lines. The protests, which began over economic issues, have become a significant challenge to the government. Activists say at least 65 people have been killed. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, who has pledged support for peaceful protesters. Iran’s judiciary chief has vowed harsh punishment for demonstrators. European leaders have condemned the violence and urged Iran to allow free expression.
