A senior United Nations official warned on Thursday that U.S. President Donald Trump’s military threats are further destabilizing Iran’s already tense situation. The statement came as large anti-government protests erupted across Iran last week, though the demonstrations have slowed due to internet restrictions and harsh crackdowns. The United States has cautioned that executing detained protesters could trigger military risks.

UN Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee told the Security Council that public remarks suggesting possible military action against Iran were deeply concerning and risked worsening the volatile environment. Iran’s representative, Gholamhossein Darzi, accused the United States of exploiting peaceful protests for geopolitical purposes. Iranian-American journalist Masih Alinejad, invited by the U.S. to speak, said millions of Iranians were united against the religious regime and demanded an end to the diversion of national funds to militant groups.

A U.S. judge in October sentenced two men to 25 years in prison for plotting to kill Alinejad, allegedly under Iranian direction. U.S. Ambassador Mike Waltz reaffirmed Washington’s support for Iranian protesters, warning that Tehran’s repression threatens international peace and security.