The Brazilian government released an official statement on Tuesday (Jan. 13) expressing concern about the demonstrations in Iran.

The protests began on December 28 in response to rising living costs in the country. Later, protesters turned against those who have governed Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

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In response to the protests, which have now spread across the country, Iranian authorities have used lethal force against the population. According to non-governmental organizations, at least 600 deaths have been recorded.

In the statement, the Brazilian Ministry of Foreign Affairs laments the deaths and defends the Iranian people’s sovereignty in deciding the course of their country.

“By stressing that it is solely up to the Iranian people to decide, in a sovereign manner, on the future of their country, Brazil urges all actors to engage in peaceful, substantive, and constructive dialogue,” the statement said.

The Brazilian government reports that, so far, there are no Brazilians among the dead or injured. The embassy in Tehran is assisting the Brazilian community in Iran.

Threats

Iranian authorities accuse the US and Israel of fomenting the protests and have threatened to attack US bases.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that peaceful protests are tolerated in the country, but said the recent disturbances are provoked by “foreign terrorists” in an attempt to justify an invasion by the US and Israel.

Donald Trump has threatened to intervene in Iran with military forces. On Monday (12), he announced that he will impose a 25 percent tariff on “any country that does business with the Islamic Republic of Iran.”

If the measure goes ahead, Brazil could be affected. Trump’s announcement has raised concerns about potential impacts on Brazilian trade, especially in agribusiness, the main beneficiary of trade relations with Tehran. The government is awaiting the publication of the US executive order before taking a position.

Brazil maintained trade of almost USD 3 billion with Iran in 2025, even though the country accounted for only 0.84 percent of Brazilian exports.