Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged Saturday that protesters’ economic complaints are legitimate, while issuing a stark warning that authorities will not tolerate unrest he described as rioting.
Speaking during a religious event, Khamenei said shopkeepers and citizens protesting high prices and economic stagnation have fair demands. However, he stressed that “rioters must be put in their place,” signaling continued repression as demonstrations spread across more than two dozen cities.
The protests began last week over rising costs and a shrinking, sanctions-hit economy, but have increasingly taken on political overtones, including chants against the regime. At least 10 people have been killed so far, including members of security forces, according to official figures.
State media reported clashes in western provinces, with incidents involving Molotov cocktails, firearms and vandalism. Kurdish rights groups say more than 130 people have been arrested, though the true number may be higher.
Khamenei also responded to U.S. President Donald Trump’s warning that Washington would intervene if protesters were harmed. Trump said the U.S. was “locked and loaded,” adding pressure on Tehran amid ongoing instability.
Despite unrest elsewhere, Tehran remained relatively quiet Saturday due to a public holiday and poor weather, according to journalists on the ground.
Authorities have attempted to strike a conciliatory tone on economic issues while maintaining firm red lines against political dissent. Analysts say the protests are smaller than the mass demonstrations of 2022 but reflect deepening frustration with Iran’s leadership.
The unrest marks one of the most challenging periods for the regime in years, as economic decline, infrastructure shortages and public anger converge.
