President Donald Trump warned that the United States is “locked and loaded” as protests spread across Iran, cautioning Tehran against killing peaceful demonstrators.

In a social media post, Trump said the U.S. would step in to “rescue” protesters if Iran used deadly force, though he did not specify how.

Iran’s top security official, Ali Larijani, responded by warning that U.S. interference would trigger regional chaos and harm American interests.

The unrest began over inflation and the collapsing currency but has grown into broader opposition to Iran’s leadership, ABC News has reported.

Trump has also warned Iran against rebuilding its nuclear program, threatening further U.S. action if it does.