Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Blames Trump for Inciting Deadly Nationwide Protests

Iran’s Supreme Leader Khamenei Blames Trump for Inciting Deadly Protests

Iran is facing one of the most serious internal crises in recent history as nationwide protests that erupted in late December 2025 continue to shape the country’s political landscape. Against this backdrop, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has directly accused Donald Trump, the current President of the United States, of inciting violence and fueling unrest that led to thousands of deaths across the country.

In a rare and strongly worded televised address on Friday, Khamenei claimed that the protests were not purely domestic in nature but were deliberately manipulated by foreign powers. He alleged that statements and actions from Washington during the unrest encouraged chaos, emboldened violent groups, and intensified bloodshed on Iranian streets.

Khamenei’s Direct Accusation

Ayatollah Khamenei described Trump as a “criminal figure” who openly interfered in Iran’s internal affairs. He said repeated public remarks from the United States—especially messages perceived as supporting protesters—sent a dangerous signal that disorder and violence would be rewarded.

“The enemies of Iran did not merely observe these events,” Khamenei said. “They actively encouraged instability, hoping to weaken the Islamic Republic from within.” He argued that foreign involvement transformed economic demonstrations into serious security threats, resulting in widespread damage and loss of life.

From Economic Grievances to Political Unrest

The protests initially began as demonstrations against soaring inflation, unemployment, and the sharp decline of Iran’s national currency. Citizens took to the streets demanding relief from rising living costs and deteriorating economic conditions.

Within days, however, the demonstrations expanded into broader political unrest, with protesters targeting state institutions and clashing with security forces in several cities. Iranian authorities claim organized groups exploited public anger, leading to arson attacks, assaults on government buildings, and violent confrontations.

Human rights organizations estimate that more than 3,000 people were killed during the unrest, including protesters, security personnel, and civilians. Over 22,000 individuals were reportedly arrested nationwide.

Trump’s Statements and Iran’s Response

During the height of the protests, President Trump publicly criticized Iran’s leadership over alleged human rights violations. He voiced support for protesters and warned Tehran against the excessive use of force. Trump also claimed that international pressure had helped prevent mass executions of detainees—an assertion Iranian officials strongly denied.

Iran’s leadership viewed these remarks as deliberate provocation. Khamenei said Washington was using human rights rhetoric as a political tool to justify interference and undermine Iran’s sovereignty, while ignoring its own record in the Middle East.

Iran’s Warning to Foreign Powers

Despite his harsh rhetoric, Khamenei said Iran does not seek war. However, he warned that the country would not tolerate foreign meddling or attempts to destabilize the state. He stressed that those responsible for encouraging violence—inside or outside Iran—would be held accountable.

“The Iranian nation has faced pressure before and has never surrendered,” Khamenei said, adding that security had largely been restored, though public vigilance remained necessary.

Economic Impact and Ongoing Tensions

The unrest has left deep economic scars. Iran’s currency has weakened further, business activity has slowed, and investor confidence has suffered. Although security forces have regained control in most areas, social tensions remain high due to unresolved economic challenges.

Western governments and human rights groups have expressed concern over casualties and mass arrests, while Iran maintains that the unrest was driven by hostile foreign agendas rather than domestic dissatisfaction alone.

Conclusion

Ayatollah Khamenei’s direct accusation against President Donald Trump marks a significant escalation in rhetoric between Tehran and Washington. The episode highlights how internal unrest in Iran has become deeply entangled with global power politics. Analysts warn that continued confrontation could further strain U.S.–Iran relations and affect regional stability in the months ahead.