Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized ongoing demonstrations across the country, saying protesters were “ruining their own streets to make the president of another country happy.” His comments came as security forces prepared to crack down on anti-regime marches that have entered their second week.
Nationwide internet blackout amid protests
Authorities imposed a countrywide internet shutdown as demonstrations escalated, severely limiting communication. According to NetBlocks, internet traffic collapsed Thursday evening, just after calls for mass protests circulated for 8 p.m. local time. The blackout followed reports that 44 people had died during the unrest.
Trump pledges U.S. support for peaceful protesters
President Donald Trump has publicly warned Iran against harming peaceful demonstrators. On Truth Social, he wrote that the U.S. was “locked and loaded” and ready to intervene if protesters were attacked. Trump reiterated the stance during an interview, emphasizing that violence against protesters would be met with severe consequences.
Iranian regime rejects U.S. warnings
Khamenei dismissed Trump’s statements, claiming U.S. hands are “stained with the blood of Iranians.” Supporters also chanted “Death to America!” in footage aired on state media. Iranian outlets alleged that foreign agents from the U.S. and Israel were behind fires and violence in Tehran and other cities.
Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi encourages continued protests
Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi praised protesters for taking to the streets and urged even larger demonstrations. On X, he stated that the public’s persistence, despite internet blackouts, is key to weakening the Islamic Republic. Pahlavi assured that the victory ultimately belongs to the people.
