Iran Protests Escalate as Official Warns Trump Over U.S. Troops in Region

Protests in Iran over inflation and currency collapse have spread nationwide, leading to violent clashes and deaths. President Trump threatened U.S. intervention if Iranian forces kill demonstrators, prompting a sharp response from Ali Larijani, who warned of regional chaos and risks to American troops. The unrest, the largest since 2022, reflects deep economic struggles under sanctions and high inflation, with Iranian leaders urging dialogue but resisting foreign involvement.

Jan 2, 2026 0 36

Iran Protests Escalate as Official Warns Trump Over U.S. Troops in Region

Iran’s ongoing protests over soaring living costs drew sharp international attention on Friday after U.S. President Donald Trump warned of possible American intervention if Iranian forces killed demonstrators. His post on Truth Social declared the U.S. was “locked and loaded” to defend peaceful protesters.

Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, quickly rebuked Trump’s remarks, cautioning that U.S. interference would destabilize the region and harm American interests. He emphasized that Iran distinguishes between merchants protesting economic hardship and groups causing unrest, while warning that U.S. troops stationed in the Middle East could face consequences.

The demonstrations began six days ago when shopkeepers in Tehran closed their stores in protest against inflation and the falling value of the rial. Since then, strikes and rallies have spread nationwide, with reports of fatalities in clashes with security forces — the most serious unrest since 2022.

Iran’s economy continues to struggle under Western sanctions and inflation hovering around 42 percent. While officials acknowledge the legitimacy of economic grievances, they caution against violence and foreign influence, offering dialogue even as security forces maintain control in the streets. Trump’s strong words have heightened fears of escalating U.S.–Iran tensions.