Iran’s Supreme Leader Accuses US of Fueling Protests
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has labeled anti-government protesters as “troublemakers” attempting to “please the president of the US.” In a letter to the United Nations Security Council, Iran also criticized the US for inciting what it described as “violent subversive acts and widespread vandalism” within the country. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump remarked that Iran was “in big trouble,” highlighting the escalating situation.
The protests, now in their 13th day, began over economic grievances and have since grown into the largest demonstrations in years. They have sparked calls for the end of the Islamic Republic and some advocacy for the restoration of the monarchy. According to human rights groups, at least 48 protesters and 14 security personnel have been killed. An internet blackout is currently in place to restrict information flow.
“We will be hitting them very hard where it hurts,” Trump stated at the White House on Friday, emphasizing that US involvement does not necessarily entail “boots on the ground.” He added that his administration was closely monitoring the situation in Iran.
These remarks align with Trump’s earlier comments about the Iranian government, where he vowed to “hit them very hard” if they “start killing people.” Khamenei, in a televised address, remained defiant, asserting that the Islamic Republic was established through the “blood of several hundred thousand honourable people” and would not retreat in the face of opposition.
Later, during a gathering of supporters broadcast on state television, Khamenei reiterated Iran’s resolve, stating the nation “will not shirk from dealing with destructive elements.” The country’s United Nations ambassador further accused the US of “interfering in Iran’s internal affairs through threats, incitement, and the deliberate encouragement of instability and violence” in the letter to the Security Council.
Since the protests began on 28 December, over 2,277 individuals have been arrested, according to the US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA). Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) reported at least 51 protesters, including nine children, had been killed. The BBC Persian has confirmed the identities of 22 victims through family interviews.
In a joint statement, the leaders of the UK, Germany, and France expressed “deep concern” about reports of violence by Iranian security forces and strongly condemned the killing of protesters. They emphasized that Iranian authorities must protect their population and allow freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of reprisal.
“The United Nations is very disturbed by the loss of life,” said UN spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric. “People are taking over certain cities that nobody thought were really possible just a few weeks ago,” Trump noted, underscoring the rapid spread of unrest.
