Khamenei Warns of Crackdown as Iran Struggles to Contain Protests
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has called for “unity” amid ongoing mass protests and warned that authorities will take tough action to suppress unrest. In a televised address, he accused foreign enemies of orchestrating what he described as “terrorist actions”.
Khamenei claimed protesters were acting on behalf of US President Donald Trump, attacking public property and serving as “mercenaries for foreigners”. He directly accused Trump of having Iranian blood on his hands.
The protests erupted in late December following worsening economic conditions and a sharp decline in the national currency. Official figures say dozens of protesters and at least several members of the security forces have been killed since the unrest began.
Iranian authorities have struggled to regain control, imposing internet and mobile network shutdowns and suspending flights. State media allege the involvement of foreign agents, while videos circulating online show demonstrations and clashes in Tehran and other cities.
President Masoud Pezeshkian has urged restraint and said the government should listen to legitimate grievances, but other officials have warned there will be no leniency. Khamenei stressed that the state will not tolerate instability and signalled a firm crackdown on the protests.
