Iran Calls on UN to Condemn Trump’s ‘Provocative’ Remarks Amid Nationwide Protests

Iran has urged the United Nations to formally respond to what it described as “reckless and unlawful threats” made by former US President Donald Trump, as protests over rising living costs continue across the country.

Iran’s Permanent Representative to the UN, Amir Saeed Iravani, has written to UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the President of the UN Security Council, seeking an unequivocal condemnation of Trump’s recent statements warning of possible US action if violence against protesters continues.

Iran Cites Violation of UN Charter

In the letter, released by Iran’s state news agency IRNA, Iravani argued that Trump’s remarks amount to a violation of the UN Charter and international law, particularly principles related to state sovereignty and non-interference.

The Iranian envoy warned that any attempt to encourage internal unrest or use protests as justification for external pressure or military intervention would undermine Iran’s territorial integrity and political independence. He added that Tehran reserves the right to defend its sovereignty and would respond “in a decisive and proportionate manner” if necessary.

Iravani further stated that Washington would bear responsibility for any escalation resulting from such threats.

Trump’s Warning Sparks Diplomatic Pushback

The diplomatic protest follows a message posted by Trump on his social media platform Truth Social, in which he claimed the United States was “locked and loaded” and suggested intervention if Iranian authorities continued to use force against demonstrators.

Iranian officials reacted sharply. Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, warned that US interference would destabilise the region and damage American interests.

Protests Spread Across Iranian Cities

According to Iranian media, demonstrations continued on Friday in several cities, including Qom, Mashhad, Yasuj, Marvdasht, Hamedan, and parts of Tehran. The unrest began after traders in Tehran reportedly launched strikes over soaring prices, inflation, and prolonged economic stagnation.

Authorities have confirmed multiple fatalities and dozens of arrests since protests began. In Qom, officials reported the death of an individual following a grenade explosion, which provincial authorities said appeared intended to inflame unrest.

Economic Pressure and a Softer Political Tone

Iran’s current economic challenges include high inflation, a weakening currency, and long-term environmental stress, including drought conditions that have worsened living conditions in urban centres.

Notably, senior Iranian leaders have adopted a more conciliatory public stance compared to previous protest movements. President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged government responsibility for the crisis and pledged corrective measures—an approach analysts say contrasts with the hardline responses seen in earlier years.