Iran’s Supreme Leader Hints at Crackdown on Protesters

Protests continued across Iran, according to online videos, despite threats from the country’s leadership to crack down after authorities shut down internet access and cut phone lines, John Gambrell reported for the Associated Press (AP).

State media later labeled protesters “terrorists,” signaling a possible violent crackdown similar to past unrest. (Photo: Khamenei.ir X)

At least 65 people have been killed since demonstrations began in late December over Iran’s struggling economy, evolving into the most serious challenge to the government in years.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused U.S. President Donald Trump of having hands “stained with the blood of Iranians,” as crowds chanted “Death to America!” in footage aired on state television.

State media later labeled protesters “terrorists,” signaling a possible violent crackdown similar to past unrest.

“They are ruining their own streets to please the president of the United States,” Khamenei said.

“He should pay attention to the state of his own country instead.” Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei warned that punishment for protesters would be “decisive, maximum, and without any legal leniency.”

Leaders of Germany, Britain, and France subsequently issued a joint statement condemning reported deadly violence and urging Iran to allow peaceful expression.

Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi also called on Western governments to denounce Iran’s leadership, saying it has “made cruelty a governing method.”