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In a communication to the United Nations, Iran’s ambassador, Amir Saeed Iravani, formally requested the UN Secretary-General and members of the UN Security Council (UNSC) to denounce comments made by US President Donald Trump. These remarks coincide with protests in Iran, fueled by rising living costs and economic dissatisfaction.
Following Trump’s declaration that the US was ‘locked and loaded’ in response to any further violent suppression of demonstrators, Iravani expressed concern over what he termed ‘unlawful threats’ directed at Iran. His letter underscores the potential for these statements to incite further unrest and violate Iran’s sovereignty.
Iran’s response to US threats
In his message, Iravani called for a clear condemnation from the UN regarding Trump’s remarks, labeling them as a serious breach of the UN Charter and international law. He articulated that encouraging internal strife as a justification for external military intervention undermines Iran’s political independence and territorial integrity.
Iravani reiterated Iran’s intrinsic right to defend its sovereignty, promising a decisive response to any threats. He warned that the United States would bear full responsibility for any negative consequences arising from its ‘illegal threats’ and any escalation of tensions that might ensue.
Ongoing protests and their implications
Reports indicate that protests have spread across major cities in Iran, including Tehran, Qom, and Mashhad. These demonstrations were sparked by shopkeepers going on strike over surging prices and economic stagnation. The situation has escalated, with at least nine fatalities reported among protesters and law enforcement personnel amidst the unrest.
Trump’s comments on social media further inflamed the situation, suggesting that the US would intervene if Iran continued to violently suppress peaceful protests. This rhetoric has drawn sharp criticism from Iranian officials, who assert that such interference would lead to chaos in the region.
Economic challenges and government response
The backdrop to these protests is Iran’s dire economic situation, characterized by a crumbling currency and soaring inflation rates. The Iranian rial has reached unprecedented lows, reportedly dropping to approximately 1,445,000 rial for a single US dollar. This depreciation has exacerbated citizens’ frustrations, leading to widespread discontent.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged the government’s shortcomings regarding the economic crisis, admitting that authorities share some responsibility for the hardships faced by the populace. His administration has pledged to find solutions, marking a notable shift from previous responses to protests, which were typically harsher.
International context and potential repercussions
The US has a fraught history with Iran, marked by military actions and sanctions that have significantly impacted the Iranian economy. In June, a conflict resulted in US strikes on Iranian nuclear sites, with Trump describing the actions as a successful military move. The current protests and the US’s threatening posture could catalyze further military confrontations, as both nations remain locked in a cycle of hostility.
While Iran’s government appears to be adopting a more conciliatory approach, pledging to respond severely to any aggression, the overall environment remains highly volatile. Observers are closely monitoring how Tehran navigates the dual challenges of domestic unrest and external pressures from the United States.