Discussing U.S. statements on protests in Iran following the government’s decision to raise gas prices, Iran’s diplomatic spokesperson contended that “these comments and interferences were not a sign of their goodwill or friendship with the Iranian people; they were aimed at heightening the tensions”. “The Americans' stance on the recent incidents came in line with their policy of maximum pressure against Iran… They want to put the Iranian government under pressure by provoking the people”, he added.