Donald Trump criticized the Ayatollah, labeling him as unwell, and condemned Iran as an unfavorable place to reside following his accusations regarding anti-government demonstrations that reportedly resulted in over 3,000 fatalities.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, denounced the US President as a “criminal” for backing protesters in Iran, attributing the thousands of deaths to this support.
In response, Trump urged for the termination of Khamenei’s long-lasting rule, emphasizing the need for improved governance and an end to the alleged violence in Iran.
Khamenei, in a televised address, disclosed that “several thousand” individuals perished in the recent protests, attributing the unrest to US encouragement and interference.
He reiterated claims of US ambitions to dominate Iran’s resources and accused the US President of criminal behavior due to the alleged casualties and damages inflicted on the Iranian populace.
Describing the protesters as agents of the United States, Khamenei accused them of causing destruction and substantial loss of life, blaming foreign-sourced live ammunition for the escalation of violence.
The exchange of verbal attacks occurred shortly after Trump expressed a softer stance, acknowledging Iran’s reported cancellation of planned executions and hinting at a possible de-escalation in tensions.
Tehran’s Prosecutor General, Ali Salehi, dismissed Trump’s statements, emphasizing a stringent and resolute approach towards internal dissent and external interference.
Trump had previously reassured protesting Iranians of potential assistance and hinted at responsive action if the situation persisted, hinting at a willingness to intervene if necessary.
Khamenei reiterated a commitment to internal security and emphasized the pursuit of justice against domestic and international instigators, without explicitly naming any nations involved in the unrest.