Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recognized the tragic loss of thousands of lives during recent protests. In a speech on Saturday, Khamenei attributed these deaths to unrest that unfolded in late December, blaming former US President Donald Trump for inciting the violence through overt support for the demonstrators.
Khamenei’s Claims About Protests
During his address, Khamenei labeled Trump a “criminal,” asserting that he was responsible for both casualties and the devastation caused by the protests. He stated that protesters were manipulated by outside forces, specifically the US and Israel, as well as influential young individuals.
- Casualties: Over 3,000, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).
- Arrests: More than 24,000 protesters apprehended during the unrest.
Eyewitness accounts described harrowing scenes in Tehran, where unarmed citizens faced armed government forces. Reports indicated that security personnel opened fire from rooftops, exacerbating the unrest.
Government’s Narrative
Khamenei mentioned that the protests, driven by economic frustration, caused significant damage to various sectors, including infrastructure and public facilities. He characterized the rioters as people who had been manipulated by foreign entities.
The Iranian government has consistently claimed that foreign agents are responsible for the turmoil but has not provided substantial evidence to support these accusations. Khamenei insisted that accountability should be sought from the US for its role in inciting violence against the Iranian people.
Trump’s Response
Former President Trump responded in a separate interview, criticizing Khamenei’s leadership and calling for a change in governance. He referenced the significant violence perpetuated within Iran, prompting him to label Khamenei as ineffective.
Trump asserted that protests were fueled by his encouragement, believing the demonstrations represented a call for change within Iran’s political structure. He conveyed that the Iranian leadership needed to manage the country better without resorting to unwarranted violence.
Current Conditions in Iran
The protests have faced severe crackdowns, with the Iranian government cutting off internet access on January 8. Connectivity has since improved slightly but remains critically low, affecting communication among the populace.
According to reports, some internet and landline services have resumed, though patchy. The government has justified the internet shutdown as necessary for national security amid unrest.
Future Implications
Khamenei hinted at consequences for those involved in the unrest without detailing specific punishments. The Iranian judiciary has indicated some protesters could potentially face the death penalty, raising alarms about human rights violations.
In conclusion, the situation in Iran remains volatile, with international scrutiny over the government’s handling of dissent. As the country navigates these crises, the repercussions of the protests will likely resonate deeply within its social and political fabric.
