Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a warning to United States President Donald Trump as protests driven by economic hardship continued to spread across Iran, accusing Washington of orchestrating the unrest and saying arrogant rulers inevitably collapse.
Speaking during a public interaction with supporters in remarks carried by Iranian state media, Khamenei referred directly to Trump and said tyrants throughout history had met their downfall at the height of their power. He cited figures including Pharaoh, Nimrod, and Iran’s former monarch Mohammad Reza Shah Pahlavi, adding, “He too will fall.”
Khamenei said some protesters were acting to win favour with the United States rather than out of genuine grievance.
Referring to reports of vandalism, he said buildings belonging to the country had been destroyed to please the US president. He dismissed Trump’s statements backing protesters as “irrelevant nonsense” and said those acting as “mercenaries for foreigners” would be rejected by the nation.
The comments came as protests entered a second week and spread to dozens of cities and towns. Demonstrations began over Iran’s worsening economic crisis and have included chants against the political leadership, clashes with security forces, and a strong response from authorities. A widespread internet blackout was reported on Thursday, limiting access to social media.
Trump has warned Tehran against using lethal force, saying in media interviews that the United States would respond strongly if protesters were harmed. Iranian officials have accused Washington of interference and warned of retaliation if the US becomes involved.
Rights groups say the protests have turned deadly, with Amnesty International reporting at least 28 deaths between December 31 and January 3, while other organisations estimate more than 40. The government has acknowledged one death.
Iran’s economy has been under pressure from sanctions, regional tensions, and a sharp fall in its currency, with inflation exceeding 42 per cent in December.