The State Department condemns deaths and arrests associated to the Iranian protests in the stoutest conceivable languages.
“We have ample authorities to hold accountable, those who commit violence against protesters, contribute to censorship, or steal from the people of Iran.
“To the regime’s victims, we say: You will not be forgotten,” the statement read.
Anti-government demonstrations erupted a week ago in Iran, and US President Donald Trump has expressed support for the protesters in a series of tweets, as has the White House through its press secretary as well as the State Department.
At least 21 people have died in the demonstrations, which began as protests against economic hardship. Iran’s army chief said on Thursday that police forces had quelled the unrest, but his troops were ready to intervene if needed.
In October, Trump declined to certify that Iran was complying with the nuclear deal. He must decide in mid-January if he wants to continue to waive energy sanctions on Iran.
Trump’s UN envoy, Ambassador Nikki Haley, has called for an emergency Security Council meeting on Iran, saying the UN needed to speak out in support of the protesters. As yet, no meeting has been scheduled.
