Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed U.S. President Donald Trump for recent protest deaths and damage, accusing him of encouraging unrest and calling the demonstrations an “American conspiracy.” The protests began over economic hardship and grew into anti-regime calls before being crushed by authorities.
Trump initially voiced support for protesters and warned Iran against violent repression, but later thanked Iran’s leadership for reportedly cancelling “over 800” planned executions—an unverified claim.
Iran says unrest has faded and key organizers were detained, but rights groups report a harsh crackdown with thousands killed and tens of thousands arrested, intensified after a major internet shutdown. Analysts warn the core causes—economic crisis and public frustration—remain unresolved.