‘Delusional’: US slams Iran’s claims of American-Israeli involvement in nationwide protests

Washington: The United States on Friday dismissed accusations from Iran’s top diplomat that Washington and Israel are orchestrating the nationwide protests currently roiling the Islamic Republic, labelling the claims "delusional."

The sharp response follows comments made by Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi during an official visit to Lebanon. Speaking in Beirut, Araghchi alleged that American and Israeli officials have admitted to "direct intervention" in the unrest, which he claimed was an attempt to transform peaceful demonstrations into violent conflict.

“This statement reflects a delusional attempt to deflect from the massive challenges the Iranian regime faces at home,” a U.S. State Department spokesperson said Friday.

The exchange comes as the Trump administration intensifies its "maximum pressure" campaign against Tehran. Protests in Iran, sparked by a dramatic collapse of the national currency and deteriorating economic conditions, have reportedly led to dozens of deaths and hundreds of arrests over the last two weeks.

President Donald Trump has issued multiple warnings to Tehran during the crisis, stating Friday that while there would be no U.S. "boots on the ground," the United States would "hit them very hard" if the Iranian government continues to use lethal force against demonstrators.

In Beirut, Araghchi maintained that the protests are a domestic matter that the government and people can resolve together. He further dismissed the likelihood of a foreign military strike, asserting that "past experiences have been failures" and that any renewed aggression would meet a similar fate.

With inputs from AFP