Trump warns US is 'locked and loaded' if Iran kills peaceful protesters

US President Donald Trump issued a stark warning to Iran on Friday, declaring that the United States would "come to their rescue" if Iranian authorities violently crack down on peaceful protesters. In a post on his Truth Social platform, Trump stated, "If Iran shoots 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."

Context of Unrest in Iran

The warning follows reports from Iranian media and human rights groups of fatalities during recent protests. According to reports, two people were killed in the southwestern city of Lordegan, three in Azna, and one in Kuhdasht during clashes between protesters and security forces. The protests began on December 28 at Tehran's Grand Bazaar over the sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial and worsening economic conditions before spreading to other cities. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has acknowledged public discontent, stating the government bears responsibility for economic problems and urging officials not to blame external actors like the US.

Escalating Rhetoric and Regional Tensions

Trump's statement represents a significant escalation in rhetoric, directly threatening military intervention in Iran's internal affairs. This comes amid longstanding tensions between Washington and Tehran over Iran's nuclear program and regional activities. Such public threats risk further inflaming an already volatile region and complicate diplomatic channels, a concern for nations like Türkiye that emphasize dialogue and de-escalation to maintain regional stability.