Former Indian diplomat Anil Trigunayat has warned that US President Donald Trump’s forceful public support for anti-government protesters in Iran has intensified an already volatile situation, increasing the risk of a broader regional conflict.
In an interview with CNBC-TV18, Trigunayat said Trump’s statements have complicated the crisis and could push tensions toward military escalation, with serious consequences for stability in the Gulf region and for India’s strategic and economic interests.
Trump has repeatedly called on Iranians to continue protesting, claiming that “help is on its way,” while warning Tehran of “very strong action.” The US president has also announced a halt to diplomatic engagement with Iran until the killing of protesters ceases.
Iranian authorities have accused Trump of encouraging political destabilisation and inciting violence within the country. Meanwhile, reports from a US-based human rights organisation allege that more than 2,500 people have been killed and over 10,000 detained amid the ongoing unrest.
Trigunayat cautioned that any military confrontation would have far-reaching implications, destabilising the wider Middle East and disrupting energy flows and regional security, areas of vital concern for India. He stressed the need for restraint and renewed diplomatic efforts to prevent the crisis from spiralling into a wider war.
