Iran’s Supreme Leader Blames Trump for Deadly Protests Amid Escalating Tensions
TEHRAN, Iran — Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei sharply condemned former U.S. President Donald Trump on Saturday, branding him a “criminal” and accusing him of personally orchestrating the widespread protests that have engulfed the country and resulted in thousands of deaths. The unrest, which began in late December over economic grievances, has swiftly evolved into the most severe anti-government demonstrations Iran has witnessed in decades, with security forces responding with brutal crackdowns.
Khamenei’s remarks, reported by Iranian state media and confirmed by Reuters, marked an escalation in Tehran’s rhetoric blaming the United States for fomenting instability within its borders. “The latest anti-Iran sedition was different in that the U.S. President personally became involved,” the Supreme Leader said, singling out Trump as a central figure in what the regime describes as foreign-driven unrest. The Iranian government has also accused Israel of playing a role in the protests.
The protests initially erupted due to worsening economic conditions, including inflation and unemployment, but quickly expanded into calls for political change and opposition to the clerical regime. According to reports from human rights organizations and international observers, thousands of protesters have been killed during the government’s violent suppression efforts.
State radio broadcasts in Iran have issued stern warnings, emphasizing the regime’s resolve to quell dissent. Meanwhile, the international community watches closely as the crisis deepens, with some U.S. officials weighing responses amid the ongoing turmoil. The U.S. Department of State has condemned the violence against protesters and called for restraint.
Trump, who left office in January 2025, has maintained a vocal stance on Iran, previously advocating for regime change and increased pressure on Tehran. In recent weeks, he has called for “new leadership” in Iran, further fueling tensions.
The situation remains volatile, with Iranian security forces reportedly conducting widespread arrests and crackdowns. The Human Rights Watch has documented numerous instances of human rights abuses during the protests, underscoring the severity of the government’s response.
International analysts note that Iran’s ethnic minorities and disenfranchised populations could play a pivotal role in the country’s future as unrest continues. The United Nations and other global bodies have urged all parties to seek peaceful solutions to avoid further loss of life.
Meanwhile, the U.S. military presence in the Middle East remains on alert, with officials from the Department of Defense monitoring developments closely. Though no immediate military action has been announced, the possibility remains amid escalating rhetoric.
As Iran grapples with this unprecedented wave of protests, the Supreme Leader’s denunciation of Trump underscores the deepening divide between Tehran and Washington, complicating prospects for diplomacy and stability in the region.
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