Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian has issued a stern warning, stating that any aggression targeting Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would be considered a declaration of “all-out war” against the Iranian nation. This strong statement comes amidst escalating tensions, including recent protests within Iran and international commentary on its leadership.
President Pezeshkian took to social media platform X to articulate Iran’s firm stance. He asserted that an attack on the nation’s supreme leader is “tantamount to a full-scale war with the Iranian nation.” This declaration appears to be a direct response to speculation, including comments from former U.S. President Donald Trump, about potential actions against Khamenei.
Pezeshkian also pointed fingers at the United States, citing its “longstanding hostility and inhumane sanctions” as a primary cause for the difficulties faced by the Iranian people. The country has recently experienced significant protests fueled by economic hardship, soaring inflation, and a collapsing currency.
Former President Trump had previously called for an end to Khamenei’s nearly four-decade rule, criticizing his leadership and accusing him of human rights abuses. Trump also encouraged Iranians to continue protesting, suggesting that “help is on its way.”
Reports emerged that the U.S. had come close to launching military strikes against Iran but ultimately decided against it, influenced by regional and diplomatic pressure from allies like Israel and Saudi Arabia. Despite the pause in military action, the U.S. administration indicated it would take “strong action” if the Iranian government proceeded with executing protesters.
The recent wave of unrest in Iran, which began in late December, saw widespread demonstrations that rapidly evolved into anti-government protests demanding regime change. In an effort to quell the dissent, Iranian authorities implemented a near-total shutdown of internet and phone services, isolating many citizens from the outside world.
There have been conflicting reports regarding the number of casualties, with some Iranian officials citing figures of over 5,000 deaths among protesters and security personnel, while human rights groups report significantly higher arrest numbers. However, a recent social media post by Trump claimed that Tehran’s leaders had called off scheduled executions of 800 people, including a young protester named Erfan Soltani.
Despite the crackdown, some Iranians have continued to voice dissent through anti-Khamenei slogans chanted from their homes. Internet access has reportedly seen a partial restoration in some areas.