Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a televised address on Friday, urging citizens to maintain national unity while accusing protesters of seeking to appease the United States. The speech comes amid escalating demonstrations triggered by economic instability and a sharp decline in the value of the rial since late December 2025.
Khamenei criticized U.S. leadership, stating that some demonstrators were "ruining their own streets to make the president of another country happy," in an apparent reference to former U.S. President Donald Trump. He asserted that Iran "will not back down" against what he described as foreign-backed "saboteurs," while advising American leaders to focus on domestic challenges.
The protests, initially sparked by economic grievances, have intensified in recent weeks with reports of clashes between security forces and groups labeled as "rioters" by authorities. A nationwide internet blackout implemented since Thursday has complicated independent verification of events, while airlines including Türkiye's Turkish Airlines and UAE-based carriers have suspended flights to Iran indefinitely.
Analysts note the unrest highlights persistent tensions between Iran's leadership and Western powers, with economic sanctions continuing to strain local markets. The situation remains fluid as authorities balance security measures with calls for dialogue to address public frustrations.
