Iran has formally asked the United Nations to respond to what it calls “reckless” threats from US President Donald Trump, following his warning that America is prepared to intervene if protesters in the country are violently suppressed.

Iran’s UN ambassador, Amir Saeed Iravani, sent letters to UN Secretary-General António Guterres and the president of the UN Security Council (UNSC), urging condemnation of Trump’s statements. The letters, published by the state news agency IRNA, described the remarks as a “serious violation” of the UN Charter and international law.

Iravani stressed that “any attempt to incite, encourage or legitimise internal unrest as a pretext for external pressure or military intervention is a gross violation of the sovereignty, political independence, and territorial integrity of the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

The letter also reaffirmed Iran’s right to defend its sovereignty and stated that the country will act “in a decisive and proportionate manner” if necessary.

Context: Trump’s threats

On Truth Social, Trump said the US was “locked and loaded and ready to go” if Iran “violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom.” His remarks followed ongoing demonstrations over rising prices and economic stagnation, which have swept across multiple cities including Tehran, Qom, Mashhad, and Hamedan.

At least nine protesters have been killed, and 44 people arrested. In Qom, authorities reported one death after a grenade exploded in a man’s hand, which officials said was an attempt to incite unrest.

Iranian response and regional concerns

Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme National Security Council, warned that US interference could trigger “chaos across the entire region and the destruction of American interests.”

Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian adopted a more conciliatory tone, acknowledging government shortcomings and promising to address citizens’ concerns. Observers noted that this response contrasts with Tehran’s historically harsher reactions to protests.

Tensions remain high following a June US bombing of Iranian nuclear sites, which Trump described as a “very successful attack.” Last week, Trump also warned Israel that the US would “knock the hell out” of Iran if it advanced its nuclear or ballistic programs.

Protesters have gathered in multiple cities, with strikes by shopkeepers in Tehran amplifying the unrest. The demonstrations have centered on rising living costs and economic challenges, reflecting widespread public frustration.