Recent weeks have seen a wave of deadly unrest sweep across Iran, leaving thousands dead and igniting a fierce blame game between Tehran and Washington. Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, recently acknowledged the tragic loss of life but swiftly pointed the finger at former US President Donald Trump.
Khamenei accused Trump of being a “criminal,” directly responsible for the casualties and damage, claiming he “openly encouraged” protesters with promises of US “military support.” The Iranian leader also attributed the “riots” to foreign agents backed by the US and Israel, or young, “naive” individuals manipulated by them. He admitted Iran faces “truly difficult” economic conditions but urged unity against the perceived threats.
However, on the ground, the reality painted a grim picture. Witnesses and human rights groups report a brutal crackdown by Iranian security forces. Unarmed protesters faced gunfire from rooftops, with one eyewitness describing a massacre where “they killed our most beautiful… our kids.” US-based HRANA claims over 3,000 deaths and 24,000 arrests, figures the Iranian government disputes, calling it a “misinformation campaign” and claiming only “hundreds” died.
Adding to the chaos, internet access was severely restricted for days, isolating citizens. Meanwhile, Trump fired back, calling Khamenei a “sick man” and urging him to “stop killing people” and “run his country properly.” Fears are mounting for the arrested protesters, with some facing potential death penalties, though officials have offered conflicting statements. The situation remains volatile, with both sides entrenched in a dangerous standoff.
