Iran Brands Mass Protests "Terrorist War" Against Nation

(MENAFN) Iran's top diplomat has escalated rhetoric against nationwide demonstrations, rejecting characterizations of civil unrest and framing the movement as orchestrated violence targeting the state.

Abbas Araghchi, Iran's foreign minister, delivered stark warnings during a Monday press briefing where he fundamentally reframed how Tehran views the escalating situation.

"What is happening now is not protests, it is a terrorist war against the country," Araghchi declared at the news conference.

The foreign minister alleged Iranian intelligence services have obtained incriminating evidence of coordinated attacks. "Iranian authorities possess audio recordings of voice messages sent to terrorist elements ordering them to open fire on civilians and security forces," he claimed.

Araghchi further accused opposition forces of systematic campaigns against state infrastructure and commercial targets. According to his assertions, demonstrators have struck government buildings, police stations, and shops in organized fashion.

Iranian officials claim to have documented proof of armed elements infiltrating protest movements, with Araghchi stating authorities have images showing weapons being distributed among protesters.

The foreign minister's comments signal Tehran's hardening position as authorities face mounting domestic pressure, categorizing civil demonstrations as external security threats rather than legitimate expressions of dissent.

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