Iran leader says protesters are vandals trying to please Trump
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused anti-government protesters of being “vandals” who are destroying their own cities to gain favor with US President Donald Trump. He made these remarks in a televised address on January 9, 2026, amid nationwide protests that began on December 28, 2025, over economic grievances like currency collapse and inflation. Khamenei warned that the regime would not tolerate such actions, signaling a potential crackdown.
Protests have spread to over 180 cities across all 31 provinces, escalating into calls to overthrow the Islamic Republic and restore the monarchy in some cases. An internet blackout has been enforced, limiting information flow, while exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi urged demonstrations and appealed for Trump’s intervention. Rights groups report at least 42-65 deaths, including protesters and security forces, with over 2,200 arrests.
Trump has repeatedly warned Iran against killing protesters, stating the US would respond “very hard” or impose severe consequences. He praised Iranians as “brave people” seeking freedom and confirmed strong warnings to Tehran. Khamenei countered by claiming Trump’s hands are “tainted with the blood of Iranians” and urged him to focus on US issues.
