Iran's Khamenei accuses US president Trump of inciting deadly protests 

Tehran (Web Desk/Agencies): Iran’s supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, on Saturday placed the blame squarely on US President Donald Trump for the deaths and destruction that occurred during the recent protests in the country, describing the unrest as part of a broader American scheme.

Speaking to supporters during a religious celebration, Khamenei held Trump accountable for the casualties, damages, and allegations directed at Iran, calling the unrest an orchestrated attempt by the US to dominate the nation politically, economically, and militarily.

He warned that the authorities must take strong action against what he termed “seditionists,” vowing that neither domestic lawbreakers nor foreign agents would escape justice.

Khamenei emphasized that Iran does not seek war, but insisted that those involved in the unrest must face strict consequences.

He urged the Iranian people, with God’s guidance, to stand firm and dismantle the attempts at internal destabilization just as they had overcome past threats.

Human rights organizations report that over 3,000 people have died in the nationwide protests, while limited internet activity has returned following an eight-day blackout imposed by the authorities.

The protests began on December 28, sparked by growing economic hardship, and soon evolved into widespread demonstrations calling for an end to clerical rule. Violence surged late last week as the demonstrations intensified.

After nearly three weeks of unrest, tensions appear to have eased, though under tight restrictions.