Iran’s Foreign Minister, Seyed Abbas Araghchi, has pledged to vehemently oppose any external meddling in the nation’s internal affairs. This statement comes in response to US President Donald Trump’s warning that the US would intervene if Iran harmed peaceful demonstrators. Araghchi emphasized that Iran’s armed forces are prepared to defend the country’s sovereignty against any encroachment.
Protests have erupted in various Iranian cities following a significant decline in the national currency, the rial. Araghchi acknowledged the right of Iranians to peaceful protest but condemned violent acts such as attacks on law enforcement and destruction of public property. He underscored that such criminal behavior cannot be tolerated.
Recent clashes during protests in two Iranian provinces resulted in three fatalities and injuries to 13 security personnel. Iranian media reported these incidents, attributing the unrest to economic grievances. Saeid Pourali, a deputy governor in Lorestan province, highlighted the impact of economic pressures stemming from Western sanctions, including currency instability and livelihood concerns.
The Iranian rial has significantly devalued since the US exited the 2015 nuclear agreement and reimposed sanctions in 2018. Currently, the exchange rate stands at over 1.35 million rials per US dollar in the open market, reflecting the economic challenges faced by Iranians due to currency fluctuations.
