Obama updated on Iran, concerned about violence

U.S. President Barack Obama expressed continued concern about violence and "unjust actions" taken against Iranian demonstrators on Sunday during a meeting with advisers who updated him about developments in the Islamic Republic.

"At approximately noon today, the President met for more than 30 minutes in the Oval Office with foreign policy advisors to get an update on the current situation and developments in Iran," a White House aide said in an email.

"At the meeting, the President reiterated his concerns about violence and unjust actions being taken against the Iranian people."

Obama's comments echoed a lengthier statement he released on Saturday that urged the Iranian government to cease violent actions against its own people.

Obama, a Democrat, has sharpened his tone about the unrest in recent days amid escalating violence in Tehran and growing criticism from some Republicans, who accused the president of being timid in his response to Iranian leaders.

Gunfire rang out in Tehran on Sunday after demonstrations culminated in the death of at least 10 people on Saturday. Iranian authorities dismissed the protesters as "terrorists" and rioters.

The protests were sparked by a disputed June 12 election that returned hardline anti-Western President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to power.