ISTANBUL

The Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) on Friday opposed interference in the internal affairs of Iran, amid heightened regional tensions over fears of a possible US military strike.

In a statement, the SCO expressed “serious concern” over massive protests in Iran and extended its “deepest condolences” to the Iranian people and government.

“The SCO notes that unilateral sanctions have had a significant negative impact on the country’s economic stability, led to a deterioration in living conditions, and objectively limited the ability of the government of the Islamic Republic of Iran to implement measures aimed at ensuring the country’s socio-economic development,” the statement said.

The organization underlined its commitment to the principles of respect for sovereignty, independence, and territorial integrity, as well as the non-use of force or the threat of force in international relations.

“The SCO calls for a peaceful resolution of the current situation through political and diplomatic means,” the statement said.

The protests began on Dec. 28 in Iran’s capital Tehran, when shopkeepers, merchants, and small business owners launched strikes and demonstrations over soaring inflation, a collapsing national currency, and worsening economic conditions.

The demonstrations later spread to multiple cities and escalated into broader anti-government expressions of discontent involving workers, students, and other groups.

US President Donald Trump has repeatedly voiced support for protesters in Iran and sharply criticized Iranian authorities’ handling of the demonstrations, previously indicating that military intervention remained a possible option.

However, Trump lowered the likelihood of a strike on Wednesday after learning that Iranian authorities had canceled some planned executions of protesters. The White House said Thursday that Iran had halted around 800 scheduled executions and that Washington is closely monitoring developments.

Iranian officials have accused the US and Israel of backing “riots” and “terrorism” in the protests.

Iran has not released official figures on casualties or detainees. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), a US-based group, estimates that more than 2,600 people have been killed, including protesters and security personnel.