President Pezeshkian Points to Foreign Interference
Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the United States and Israel of directing violent actors to destabilize Iran during a January 11 televised address. Speaking three years after the 2025 Iran-Israel conflict, he claimed foreign-backed "rioters and terrorists" were attacking civilians and infrastructure while his government implements critical subsidy reforms to stabilize markets and strengthen supply chains.
Security Forces Report Major Crackdown
Police Chief Ahmad Reza Radan announced the January 10 arrest of key riot organizers, with 200 alleged "terrorist leaders" detained nationwide. Special Forces Commander Masoud Mossadegh revealed eight security personnel died in clashes between January 8-9, describing coordinated attacks using grenades and firearms. Tehran fire officials reported extensive arson damage to homes, mosques, and businesses.
Economic Pressures Fuel Protests
The unrest follows weeks of demonstrations triggered by currency depreciation and rising prices. Multiple Iranian officials have characterized the violence as foreign-engineered, with Parliament Speaker statements condemning U.S.-Israeli involvement appearing on billboards across Tehran this month. Pezeshkian emphasized his administration remains open to public feedback while pushing economic reforms aimed at boosting purchasing power.
