UN secretary-general António Guterres said he was “deeply saddened by the reported loss of lives and injuries”, resulting from clashes between security forces and protesters in Iran.

Protests in the Iranian capital, Tehran, sparked by increasing economic hardship and a cost-of-living crisis, continued for the 10th day.

UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said the UN chief underscored the need to prevent any further casualties during demonstrations.

“He also calls on the authorities to uphold the right of freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly,” Mr Dujarric said. “All individuals must be allowed to protest peacefully and express their grievances.”

Mr Guterres emphasised the importance of all actors in Iran and the wider region “refraining from actions that could heighten tensions and contribute to instability”.

News reports cited videos posted online on Monday showing demonstrations in Tehran and Yasuj.

Demonstrations took place last week in a large majority of Iranian provinces, according to human rights activists.

Rights groups also report that at least 20 have been killed, including three children, and hundreds have been arrested, including minors, amid a crackdown by security forces.

U.S. President Donald Trump said on Friday that his country would come to the “rescue” of protesters if the Iranian government continued to authorise lethal force against them.

“We are locked and loaded and ready to go,” Mr Trump posted on his Truth social media.

Iran responded by writing to the UN secretary-general and the Security Council, calling on them to condemn “unlawful threats” towards Tehran.

(NAN)