Iran has criticised a police crackdown in the United States against university students protesting the rising death toll from Israel’s military campaign in the Gaza Strip, AFP reports.

“The American government has practically ignored its human rights obligations and respect for the principles of democracy that they profess,” foreign ministry spokesman Nasser Kanani said.

Tehran “does not at all accept the violent police and military behaviour aimed at the academic atmosphere and student demands”, he added.

“What we have seen in American universities in recent days is an awakening of the world community and world public opinion towards the Palestinian issue,” Kanani said.

“It is not possible to silence the loud voices of protesters against this crime and genocide through police action and violent policies. “