In a significant escalation of diplomatic tensions, the United States has categorically rejected Iran’s allegations of American involvement in fueling violent protests within the Islamic Republic. The confrontation unfolded at the United Nations Security Council where Iran’s Ambassador Amir Saeid Iravani presented formal accusations against Washington.
The Iranian delegation circulated a letter asserting that the United States, acting in coordination with Israel, bears responsibility for transforming peaceful demonstrations into ‘violent, subversive acts and widespread vandalism.’ The document condemned what it described as unlawful interference in Iran’s internal affairs through threats, incitement, and deliberate encouragement of instability.
US State Department officials responded with forceful dismissal, characterizing the Iranian claims as ‘delusional’ and describing them as a transparent attempt to divert attention from the regime’s domestic challenges. The American rebuttal came directly in response to similar accusations made by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during his diplomatic visit to Lebanon.
Independent reports from Norway-based Iran Human Rights indicate that security forces have killed at least 45 protesters, including eight minors, during the crackdown on demonstrations that began in late December. The protests represent the largest wave of civil unrest since the 2022-2023 nationwide rallies triggered by the custody death of Mahsa Amini.
The current demonstrations initially emerged from economic grievances, particularly anger over rising living costs, but have evolved into broader expressions of dissent. Recent videos from Iran show protesters chanting anti-government slogans and setting fire to official buildings, indicating escalating tensions between civil society and state authorities.