By: The Trek News Desk
Amid widespread protests across Iran, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has taken a firm stand, declaring that the Islamic Republic will not surrender to what he described as “saboteurs” and “agents acting on behalf of foreign powers.” In a speech broadcast on state television on Friday, Khamenei labelled the protesters as troublemakers and accused the United States of fuelling unrest inside the country.
Reacting publicly to the demonstrations that have continued for nearly two weeks, Khamenei alleged that US President Donald Trump’s “hands are stained with Iranian blood.” Drawing a historical parallel, he said that just as Iran’s monarchy collapsed during the 1979 revolution, so too would “arrogant powers” eventually face downfall.
His remarks came at a time when protests continued in several parts of the country despite restrictions on internet and mobile services. Videos circulating online showed demonstrators in Tehran and other cities gathering around bonfires, chanting slogans and expressing anger against the government.
After maintaining silence for days, Iranian state media blamed the unrest on what it called “terror-linked elements” associated with the United States and Israel, accusing them of inciting violence and arson. However, no official details were provided regarding casualties.
Due to the ongoing communications blackout, the true scale of the protests remains unclear. What began as public anger over economic hardship in late December has gradually escalated into one of the most serious challenges faced by the Iranian leadership in recent years.
Call for Protests from Shah’s Son
Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s former Shah, urged citizens to intensify protests through social media, stating that “the world is watching the Iranian people.” In some locations, chants supporting the former monarchy were heard, highlighting the depth of public frustration.
Human rights groups report that at least 42 people have lost their lives in protest-related violence so far, while more than 2,270 individuals have been detained. Internet monitoring organisations claim that authorities have enforced a nationwide communications shutdown in an attempt to suppress dissent.
Footage verified by activists shows large crowds on major streets in Tehran, as well as significant demonstrations in cities such as Tabriz, Mashhad, Kermanshah and Isfahan, with incidents of fire damage reported near government buildings.
Source: News Agencies
