Trump Labeled 'Criminal' by Iran's Supreme Leader: Unrest in Iran Escalates
Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized President Donald Trump, calling him a "criminal" and accusing the U.S. of fueling the deadly protests in Iran. Khamenei highlighted Trump's personal involvement in the recent unrest, blaming the U.S. for instigating instability in the country.
The Iranian government has consistently blamed the U.S. for contributing to the turmoil in Iran, with Trump being singled out as a key figure in what Tehran perceives as foreign-driven unrest. The regime has also pointed fingers at Israel in connection with the protests.
Protests in Iran began in late December, initially triggered by economic issues but quickly escalating into widespread anti-regime demonstrations. Security forces have responded with harsh crackdowns on the demonstrators.
Human rights organizations report that thousands of protesters have been killed during the unrest. Various groups have attributed the crackdown to Khamenei, with the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists in Iran estimating the death toll at 3,090.
The death toll from the protests continues to rise, surpassing that of any other recent unrest in Iran and evoking memories of the chaos surrounding the 1979 revolution. Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi claimed that at least 12,000 people have died in the protests.
President Trump has voiced support for Iranian protesters and discussed the possibility of regime change, while some Republican lawmakers have urged him to consider military action. Trump announced that he had halted meetings with the Iranian regime until they cease killing protesters and encouraged the Iranian people to take control of their country.
Trump's social media posts and statements have reflected his stance on the situation in Iran, expressing gratitude for the cancellation of scheduled executions in the country. The White House press secretary reiterated that all options remain on the table in dealing with Iran, emphasizing the potential consequences if the killings persist.
Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami, a prominent figure in Iran's Assembly of Experts and Guardian Council, delivered a sermon condemning the protesters as collaborators of Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and "Trump's soldiers." He warned of retaliation against the U.S. and Israel, stating that they should not expect peace.
In conclusion, the ongoing unrest in Iran has sparked international attention and condemnation, with the U.S. and Iran engaging in a war of words over the handling of the protests and the resulting casualties. The situation remains volatile, with both sides maintaining their positions on the matter.