TEHRAN: Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi on Monday accused the United States and Israel of fomenting violence in the country, which the top diplomat described as a “terrorist war.”
Araghchi added that comments by US President Donald Trump calling for intervention had encouraged “terrorist elements” to target both protesters and security forces.
Trump has repeatedly warned that the United States could take military action against Iran if protests become violent, stating that Washington has “very strong options” while remaining in contact with Iranian opposition figures.
‘Very strong options’
President Donald Trump on Sunday said the US military was considering “very strong options” in Iran.
Asked aboard Air Force One whether Iran had crossed his previously stated red line regarding the killing of protesters, Trump replied, “they’re starting to, it looks like.”
According to state media, more than 100 security personnel have been killed in recent days, while opposition groups claim that hundreds of protesters have also lost their lives.
Iran, US continue to maintain communication
Foreign Ministry spokesperson Esmaeil Baghaei said Iran continues to maintain communication with the United States through direct contacts and Swiss-mediated channels, but stressed that diplomacy must be “based on mutual interests and respect,” not unilateral demands.
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Baghaei described the unrest as a “terrorist war against the Iranian people” and accused foreign actors of distributing firearms among protesters.
Protests, initially peaceful
Araghchi added that the protests, which started in late December over economic woes, were initially peaceful and addressed through dialogue with various professional and trade groups.
He said the situation turned violent on January 8 when armed groups joined the demonstrations, allegedly encouraged by remarks from Trump.
Evidence of US and Israeli involvement
The foreign minister cited evidence of US and Israeli involvement, including claims of Mossad operatives operating inside Iran, and warned that Tehran would seek accountability through international institutions.
“We pursue this involvement and hold those contributing to the fatalities with their instigation responsible,” Araghchi said.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has also denounced the protests as acts orchestrated by external enemies, urging families to keep children away from the demonstrations.
Meanwhile, Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf threatened that US and Israeli military assets could be targeted in the event of an attack on Iran.
