Iran’s newly appointed ambassador to Armenia, Khalil Shirgholami, issued a sharp statement during a press conference, accusing Armenia of becoming a center for forces hostile to Iran. His remarks were prompted by a series of protests held outside the Iranian Embassy in Yerevan.
"For six days now, from 6 to 9 p.m., groups have gathered in front of our embassy, using very disrespectful and offensive language. Despite our repeated complaints, the protests continue. We have stood by the Armenian people and government during their hardest times, and there are many examples of that. Today, Iran is facing a difficult situation, and what is happening outside the embassy will remain in the historical memory of the Iranian people. I believe I made myself very clear," Shirgholami said, as quoted by Sputnik Armenia.
Asked whether the protests could affect Iran–Armenia relations, the ambassador said Tehran had already conveyed its concerns to the relevant Armenian authorities multiple times.
He added that there is now a growing perception in Tehran that Armenia is becoming a hub for operations by forces hostile to Iran.
Mass protests erupted in Iran starting December 28, 2025, initially over currency instability and rising prices. They later escalated into political demonstrations marked by clashes with police.
On January 2, U.S. President Donald Trump stated that the U.S. was prepared to defend Iranian citizens if the government used force against them, a statement condemned by Tehran.
On January 8, Iran witnessed its largest protests yet, sparked by a call from Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed Shah. This was followed by counter-rallies organized by supporters of the current regime.
