Iran warns of swift response after Trump's 'locked and loaded' message

Iran has warned it would respond "swift, decisive and comprehensive" if the United States intervenes amid widespread protests, after President Donald Trump said on Truth Social the US was "locked and loaded and ready to go" to "rescue" demonstrators. At least 10 people have been reported killed and rights groups say dozens have been arrested during the unrest, which has been driven by economic grievances and is the largest since nationwide protests in 2022.

Iran's foreign ministry condemned what it called "intimidating remarks" from the US and accused Washington of "escalating tensions in the region." The ministry said any aggression would be met by a comprehensive response. The US State Department shared video of the protests on X, praising the "courage of the Iranian people" and the demonstrators' "resolve in the face of repression." State-affiliated media and rights groups reported at least 10 deaths since Wednesday, including two men authorities said belonged to the Basij paramilitary linked to the Revolutionary Guards.

Human rights organisation Hengaw said it had verified 132 arrests during the unrest, including at least 12 women and eight children. Protests began in Tehran and have spread to multiple cities, with students and other demonstrators clashing with security forces. Hardline politician Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf said Mr Trump's warning made "all American bases and forces across the region legitimate targets" in response to any US action.

Key Topics

World, Donald Trump, Iran, Hengaw Organisation, Revolutionary Guards, Mohammad Bagher Qalibaf