Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has called anti-government protesters 'troublemakers' and 'a bunch of vandals' just trying 'to please the president of the US'. He accused crowds of destroying buildings because Donald Trump said he 'supports you'. Trump has warned Iran that if it kills protesters, the US would 'hit' the country 'very hard'. The protests, in their 13th day, erupted over the economy and have grown into the largest in years - leading to calls for an end to the Islamic Republic and some urging the restoration of the monarchy.
At least 48 protesters and 14 security personnel have been killed, according to human rights groups. An internet blackout is in place. Khamenei remained defiant in a televised address on Friday, stating, 'Let everyone know that the Islamic Republic came to power through the blood of several hundred thousand honourable people and it will not back down in the face of those who deny this.'
Since protests began on December 28, in addition to the 48 protesters killed, more than 2,277 individuals have been arrested, the US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) reported. The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) indicated that at least 51 protesters, including nine children, had died. Despite reports of violence, international news organizations face restrictions on reporting within Iran.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared it would not tolerate the current chaos. Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last shah, urged Trump to intervene on behalf of the Iranian populace. The protests span across various cities, with demonstrators chanting 'death to the dictator' and showing a heightened resolve against the regime.
The protests have triggered an extensive internet shutdown, crippling communications and digital transactions, leading to heightened civilian anxiety as citizens fear escalating government crackdowns. Reports indicate residents rushing to stock supermarkets in anticipation of worsening conditions, further underlining the precarious nature of daily life in Iran.
At least 48 protesters and 14 security personnel have been killed, according to human rights groups. An internet blackout is in place. Khamenei remained defiant in a televised address on Friday, stating, 'Let everyone know that the Islamic Republic came to power through the blood of several hundred thousand honourable people and it will not back down in the face of those who deny this.'
Since protests began on December 28, in addition to the 48 protesters killed, more than 2,277 individuals have been arrested, the US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) reported. The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) indicated that at least 51 protesters, including nine children, had died. Despite reports of violence, international news organizations face restrictions on reporting within Iran.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps declared it would not tolerate the current chaos. Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last shah, urged Trump to intervene on behalf of the Iranian populace. The protests span across various cities, with demonstrators chanting 'death to the dictator' and showing a heightened resolve against the regime.
The protests have triggered an extensive internet shutdown, crippling communications and digital transactions, leading to heightened civilian anxiety as citizens fear escalating government crackdowns. Reports indicate residents rushing to stock supermarkets in anticipation of worsening conditions, further underlining the precarious nature of daily life in Iran.
