During a week of protests in Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a strong message. He distinguished between protesters and 'rioters,' asserting that rioters must be shown their place. Khamenei’s statement comes amidst violent clashes, resulting in at least ten deaths and escalating tensions.
This marks the first public response from 86-year-old Khamenei regarding the widespread protests in Iran. He expressed willingness to listen to protesters' demands, yet firmly dismissed any negotiations with rioters, stating they must be returned to their place.
Khamenei’s remarks were broadcast on national TV during an event in Tehran. He commented, 'Protesters are to be engaged in dialogue by the authorities, but speaking with rioters serves no purpose. They must be shown their place.'
The past week's protests in Iran have resulted in at least ten casualties. Initially sparked by economic woes, the devaluing rial, and rising inflation, protests have increasingly voiced anti-government slogans, extending to about 90 cities and towns.
Accusations against foreign powers
Khamenei reiterated claims that foreign powers are behind these protests, suggesting without evidence that nations like the USA and Israel are fueling the movements. He alleged that enemies have incited or paid individuals to infiltrate traders and shopkeepers, inciting slogans against Islam, Iran, and the Islamic Republic. This, he claimed, is the gravest issue.
'America must depart'
Attributing Iran’s economic issues and currency depreciation to ‘enemies,’ Khamenei launched a fiery verbal attack on the US, insisting America must leave the region. 'With the resolve of regional nations, America will vacate this area, and it will happen,' he declared.
Tensions rise with US threats and reactions
Amid these protests, US President Donald Trump warned Iran on Friday that if Tehran crushes peaceful protests violently, America will intervene. This statement drew severe ire from Iranian leadership.
Iran’s UN ambassador, Amir Saeed Iravani, has sent letters to the UN Secretary-General and Security Council President, condemning Trump’s threats as ‘illegal’ and urging a response.
Meanwhile, Ali Larijani, Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, warned that American interference could wreak chaos in the region and harm US interests.
Largest protests since 2022
The ongoing protests in Iran are considered the largest since those of 2022. Back then, nationwide unrest erupted after the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in police custody. Although the current protests haven’t reached those levels of scale and intensity, they are a growing threat to the government.
Mahsa Amini’s detention, allegedly over improper hijab wearing, led to her untimely death, sparking significant public outcry across Iran.
