President Trump Warns Iran Over Protest Crackdown, Imposes UAV Sanctions

President Donald Trump issued a sharp warning to Iran on Friday, stating that the United States would act if Iranian forces used lethal force against protesters.

Trump warned in a social media post that the United States would respond and remain ‘locked and loaded and ready to go’ if security forces harmed demonstrators.

“If Iran shots and violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue. We are locked and loaded and ready to go,” President Trump said on Truth Social.

Reports indicate that protests in Iran have intensified, with clashes between demonstrators and security forces resulting in fatalities. The Wall Street Journal reported that at least five people died during the fifth day of demonstrations, which began after merchants protested the sharp devaluation of the rial, Iran’s national currency.

International sanctions, imposed due to Iran’s nuclear ambitions, have contributed to high inflation and economic instability. Citizens’ frustration over declining purchasing power and worsening economic conditions continues to fuel unrest.

Iranian Officials Respond

Ali Larijani, Secretary of Iran’s National Security Council, cautioned the US against intervening.

He stated that external interference could destabilise the region and harm American interests, while noting that Iran distinguishes between peaceful protesters and sabotage activities.

Earlier this week, the US State Department sanctioned ten entities and individuals based in Iran and Venezuela. Principal Deputy Spokesperson Tommy Pigott explained that the measures target networks supporting Iran’s UAV and ballistic missile programmes, including Venezuelan entities involved in the sale of combat UAVs.

The sanctions highlight Washington’s continued enforcement of UN restrictions and efforts to limit Iran’s military capabilities.

According to the State Department, Iran continues to proliferate combat UAVs and procure missile-related items, threatening regional stability and US interests.

Tensions between the US and Iran remain high over nuclear programs, missile development, and regional influence. Washington continues to rely on sanctions and diplomatic pressure to curb Tehran’s weapons proliferation while monitoring unrest and potential interventions.

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