Iranian officials warn Trump against intervening in protests
Iranian officials have issued strong warnings to President Donald Trump against any US intervention in the ongoing protests across Iran, which stem from economic hardships like currency devaluation and rising prices.
Protests erupted last week at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar and spread nationwide, with shopkeepers protesting deteriorating economic conditions. Clashes have resulted in at least six deaths as reported by Iranian media and rights groups.
On January 2, 2026, Trump posted on Truth Social that the US is “locked and loaded” to rescue protesters if Iran violently suppresses them, a custom he attributed to Tehran.
Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei rejected foreign interference, emphasizing internal resolution through dialogue. Ali Larijani, Supreme National Security Council secretary, warned US involvement would destabilize the Middle East and harm American interests, urging concern for US soldiers. Ali Shamkhani, adviser to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, stated any intervening hand would face a severe response, calling Iran’s security a red line.
