Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly accused US President Donald Trump of being responsible for the casualties sustained during the recent wave of protests across the country. Speaking to supporters on a religious holiday, Khamenei described the unrest as part of an “American conspiracy” aimed at undermining Iran’s sovereignty.
Khamenei’s Accusations and Response to Protests
Khamenei stated, “We hold the American president guilty for the casualties, damages, and accusations he has levelled against the Iranian nation.” He claimed that the United States seeks to reassert military, political, and economic control over Iran. In response to the protests, which erupted over economic difficulties and escalated into calls for an end to clerical rule, Khamenei emphasized the government’s determination to suppress what he termed “seditionists.”
He added, “We do not intend to lead the country to war, but we will not spare domestic criminals… worse than domestic criminals, international criminals, we will not spare them either.” Khamenei called on the Iranian people to “break the back of the seditionists” as they had done previously.
Protests and Casualties
Rights activists report that over 3,000 people have died during the nationwide protests, which began on December 28. The demonstrations initially focused on economic hardship but expanded into broader demands for political change. The unrest was met with a government crackdown and an eight-day internet blackout, after which a slight increase in online activity was noted.
Residents of Tehran reported a relative calm in the capital over recent days, with drones observed overhead but no significant protests taking place.
Diplomatic Developments
Separately, Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar spoke by phone with Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. They discussed the situation in Iran and the wider region, expressing hopes for peace and stability. Both officials agreed to continue bilateral consultations on shared interests.
Trump’s Reaction to Execution Cancellations
US President Donald Trump took to social media to thank Iran’s leadership for reportedly cancelling hundreds of planned executions of protesters. Trump expressed respect for the decision, noting that over 800 scheduled hangings were called off. His earlier statements had included threats of strong action should Iran proceed with executions.
