US President Donald Trump warned on Friday (January 2, 2026) that the United States would intervene if Iranian authorities killed peaceful protesters. Tehran responded by declaring such action a “red line” that would destabilize the region.
The protests began on Sunday in Tehran, sparked by rising living costs, economic decline, and the collapse of the currency. Initially led by merchants, the demonstrations quickly spread to other social groups and regions.
Local media reported on Thursday that six people had been killed in clashes between security forces and protesters – the first fatalities since the unrest began. Trump wrote on his Truth Social platform: “If Iran shoots peaceful protesters and kills them, as it has done before, the United States will intervene to save them. We are ready and prepared to act.”
Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, warned on X: “Trump must understand that any US intervention in these internal affairs will destabilize the entire region and destroy American interests.” He added: “The American people should know that Trump started this escalation, and they must pay attention to the safety of their soldiers.”
Meanwhile, the German government in Berlin urged Iran to respect the right to peaceful protest, amid calls to designate the Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization.
Sources - Agencies
