• Trump threatens military support for Iranian protesters if violence occurs.
• Iranian officials warn US intervention would destabilize the region.
• At least six protesters have died amid escalating protests across Iran.
• The protests, the largest in three years, stem from economic discontent.
• Iran's President acknowledges government failings contributing to unrest.

US President Donald Trump declared on Friday that the United States is "locked and loaded" to respond if Iran kills protesters, following unrest that has resulted in multiple fatalities. He stated, "If Iran violently kills peaceful protesters, which is their custom, the United States of America will come to their rescue," highlighting the potential for US military involvement if violence escalates against demonstrators, according to Channel News Asia and SCMP.

In response, Iranian officials strongly condemned Trump's remarks, with Ali Larijani, head of Iran's National Security Council, warning that any US interference would mean destabilizing the entire region and harming US interests. He emphasized, "The American people should know - Trump started this adventurism," illustrating the tense atmosphere created by the US President's threats, according to BBC and India Times.

The protests in Iran have emerged against a backdrop of soaring inflation and economic hardship, affecting multiple cities particularly in the west, where deadly confrontations have occurred. Reports confirm at least six fatalities since the unrest began, with protests being the largest seen in three years. These demonstrations were spurred initially by economic discontent, including significant drops in the value of Iran's currency, prompting increased public dissent, according to India Times and Channel News Asia.

Iran's President Masoud Pezeshkian acknowledged the government's responsibility for the current crisis, stating that officials "must serve properly so that people are satisfied with us." He pledged to engage in dialogue with protest leaders, reflecting an awareness of the need for reform amidst calls for change from citizens, which reflects a shift from overt suppression to potential engagement with protest demands, according to BBC and India Times.

As the situation unfolds, Iranian officials have been clear in their stance against any US intervention, warning of a decisive and firm response to maintain order and security. Abbas Araghchi, Iran's Foreign Affairs Minister, condemned Trump's threats, labeling them as reckless and emphasizing that Iran would reject such interference forcefully. This stance highlights the increasing tensions amidst a backdrop of economic instability and social upheaval, according to SCMP and BBC.