Trump Backs Iran Protesters as Tehran Warns it's Ready for Conflict

Iran continued to face widespread protests on Tuesday as authorities warned they were prepared for any action by the United States, raising the stakes in an already tense standoff with Washington.

Demonstrations have spread across multiple cities, driven by anger over economic hardship, political repression, and long-standing grievances against the ruling establishment.

US President Donald Trump publicly voiced support for the protesters, urging them to continue their demonstrations and saying that “help is on its way,” without detailing what form that assistance might take.

He also said Washington had cancelled meetings with Iranian officials, linking any future engagement to an end to violence against demonstrators.

• Trump voices support for Iran protesters as Tehran warns it is ready for conflict
• Iran rejects US remarks, says foreign interference will face a firm response
• Protests persist despite crackdown, raising risks of US-Iran escalation

Iranian officials rejected Trump’s remarks, accusing the United States of encouraging instability. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran was prepared for “any scenario,” including confrontation, while insisting Tehran does not seek war. He warned that foreign interference would be met with a firm response and described US statements as an attempt to exploit internal unrest.

Human rights organisations estimate that at least 2,000 people killed since protests erupted late last year, though Iranian authorities dispute the figures. Security forces have used mass arrests, roadblocks, and live ammunition in some areas to disperse crowds, according to activists. The government has also imposed sweeping internet restrictions, limiting access to social media and messaging platforms in an effort to disrupt protest coordination.

Despite the crackdown, demonstrations have continued, with reports of strikes and night-time protests in several provinces. State media has portrayed the unrest as foreign-backed unrest, while officials have called on citizens to rally behind the government against what they describe as external pressure.

International reaction has been divided. Some Western governments have condemned Iran’s response to the protests, while others have urged restraint from all sides to avoid further escalation. Analysts warn that sharp rhetoric from Washington, combined with Iran’s hardline posture, increases the risk of miscalculation.

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As protests persist, both Tehran and Washington face growing pressure over their next moves, with regional stability hanging in the balance.