Blackouts, bonfires, and bloodshed define Iran’s streets as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rails against protesters for demolishing public assets to win smiles from President Trump. His televised tirade underscores a regime digging in, amid 12 days of fury that has isolated the nation and killed dozens.
Rooted in hyperinflation, economic ruin, and security brutality, the demonstrations have spiraled. Reuters-sourced clips showed widespread arson before authorities killed internet services Friday. Human rights monitors cite police shootings in the south, pushing the death toll past 40.
Khamenei stood firm in his speech, decrying a U.S.-exile conspiracy and vowing total confrontation. ‘You’re wasting your own roads for another president’s joy,’ he snapped, echoing Trump’s pledge to hit back if civilians are harmed.
Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi’s Thursday-Friday protest summons at 8 PM lit the fuse further. President Pezeshkian’s team responded January 8 by cutting internet and global calls during peak clashes. Officials from judiciary to forces promise harsh reprisals against revolutionary slogans.
Sanctions-battered Iran’s stability hangs by a thread; prolonged strife risks total economic collapse. Khamenei’s bold front clashes with mounting casualties, hinting at a regime under siege from its own people.