That’s according to UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric, briefing reporters in New York on Monday.

News reports cited videos posted online Monday showing demonstrations in Tehran and the city of Yasuj, while demonstrations took place last week in a large majority of Iranian provinces, according to human rights activists.

Deaths and injuries

Rights groups also report that at least 20 have been killed – including three children - and hundreds have been arrested, including minors, amid a crackdown by security forces.

US President Donald Trump said on Friday that his country would come to the “rescue” of protesters if the Iranian Government continued to authorise lethal force against them. “We are locked and loaded and ready to go,” he posted.

Iran responded by writing to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council, calling on them to condemn “unlawful threats” towards Tehran.

Avoid any further casualties

In response to questions during the regular Monday briefing, Mr. Dujarric said the UN chief António Guterres underscored the need to prevent any further casualties during demonstrations.

“He also calls on the authorities to uphold the right of freedom of expression, association and peaceful assembly. All individuals must be allowed to protest peacefully and express their grievances.”

Mr. Guterres emphasised the importance of all actors in Iran and the wider region “refraining from actions that could heighten tensions and contribute to instability.”