Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has advised President Donald Trump to concentrate on managing his own country following Trump’s threat to take severe action against Tehran in response to potential violence against protestors. Khamenei, speaking on state TV, emphasized Iran’s determination to stand firm against demonstrators opposing the regime. He accused Trump of being responsible for the deaths of numerous Iranians and predicted his eventual downfall.
Khamenei criticized protestors for causing unrest to please a foreign leader, without receiving an immediate reaction from Washington. Trump reaffirmed his warning to strike Iran if any protesters are harmed. Despite Iran’s internet and communication restrictions, videos circulated by activists depicted protesters voicing dissent against the government amid street disturbances in Tehran and other areas.
Iranian state media attributed the unrest to alleged provocations by “terrorist agents” from the US and Israel, mentioning unspecified casualties. The extent of the protests remains unclear due to communication blockades, marking a significant challenge to the government amidst ongoing economic struggles. The demonstrations, which began over economic hardships and escalated since December 28, have been exacerbated by sanctions and currency devaluation.
Trump has reiterated the possibility of military action against Iran if violence escalates, particularly targeting protesters. The recent capture of Venezuelan President Nicolás Maduro by US forces has added weight to Trump’s promise of intervention. Reports indicate widespread protests across Iran, resulting in over 42 deaths and thousands of arrests. Limited official information from Iranian sources has made it challenging to fully comprehend the scale of the unrest, relying on fragmented online footage for glimpses of the unfolding situation.