Speaking on national television, Khamenei accused protesters of damaging public and government property, suggesting that some are attempting to ‘cheer up the U.S. president’ by spreading unrest.

‘We will never allow the agents of foreign powers to operate in our homeland,’ he said, emphasizing that the Islamic Republic was built on the sacrifices of millions of honorable citizens and will not bow to saboteurs.

The demonstrations, initially sparked by inflation and severe economic hardship, have spread to multiple regions of Iran. Though less intense than nationwide unrest three years ago, the protests have already left dozens dead.

Observers note that ongoing economic weakness and international pressure, including tensions with Israel and the U.S., have left the government more vulnerable.

In response to the unrest, Iranian authorities have largely cut off internet access, isolating the country from the outside world. International calls have been blocked, flights canceled, and local news websites update sporadically.

Reports from Iran’s southeastern city of Zahedan indicate that security forces opened fire on protestors after Friday prayers, leaving several injured, according to human rights group Hengaw.

Meanwhile, exiled opposition groups have urged citizens to continue demonstrating. Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of the former Shah, called on Iranians via social media to take to the streets, reminding them that ‘the world’s eyes are upon you.’

While U.S. President Donald Trump, who previously hinted at supporting Iranian protestors, stated he would not meet Pahlavi or intervene directly.

Scenes broadcasted by Iranian state TV showed buses, vehicles, and motorcycles set ablaze, along with damage to metro stations and banks. Authorities attributed the unrest to the People’s Mujahedin Organization of Iran (MEK), a long-standing opposition group founded after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

In the Caspian coastal city of Rasht, a local reporter described the streets as ‘resembling a battlefield,’ with many shops destroyed. Verified footage from Tehran shows hundreds marching in protest, with some demonstrators chanting slogans against Khamenei.

Officials stressed that peaceful protests over economic issues are legitimate, but violent acts will face harsh measures. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf noted that protestors’ voices must be heard, yet warned that those linked to foreign networks would face different treatment.

As Iran grapples with economic turmoil and renewed international sanctions on its contested nuclear program, the government appears determined to assert control over a nation teetering between dissent and order.