Supreme Leader Denounces Foreign Conspiracy
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has described the recent unrest in the country as a deliberate attempt at a coup orchestrated by foreign powers. In a statement posted on social media, Khamenei specifically singled out the United States and Israel, claiming that their involvement in the riots was evident and ultimately unsuccessful.
It is not merely an accusation that this plot was planned abroad, Khamenei said. “Even statements by the American president provide clear evidence. He addressed the rioters directly, saying, ‘Keep going, I am coming to help.’
Khamenei’s remarks follow weeks of demonstrations in multiple Iranian cities, some of which escalated into violent confrontations. While initial protests were reportedly sparked by economic grievances and local disputes, the Supreme Leader insists that external forces attempted to exploit these events to destabilize the country.
Riots Characterized as a Coup Attempt
The Supreme Leader described the unrest as a direct attempt at rebellion, coordinated and financed from outside Iran. According to Khamenei, intelligence agencies such as the CIA and Mossad tried to amplify the unrest, using all available resources, but were ultimately defeated by the vigilance and unity of the Iranian people.
This is a conflict between Iran and global aggressive powers, Khamenei said. Therefore, it would be incorrect to claim that the recent unrest is the last we will face. These challenges will continue until the enemy is fully frustrated, and the Iranian nation will certainly succeed in this mission.
Economic Grievances and Rioters’ Actions
Khamenei acknowledged that some of the protesters’ concerns, particularly from merchants and small business owners, were legitimate. He noted that initial peaceful demonstrations were fueled by genuine grievances over economic issues, including inflation and restrictions imposed during the past year.
However, he claimed that rioters exploited the situation, attempting to turn peaceful protests into violent acts. According to Khamenei, once shopkeepers and traders realized the true intent of the rioters, they distanced themselves, restoring order and preventing further escalation.
Unity and Awareness as a Shield
The Supreme Leader emphasized that the Iranian public’s awareness and unity were crucial in thwarting the alleged foreign conspiracy. The vigilance of the Iranian nation has defeated this plot and proven that the enemy cannot achieve its objectives under any circumstances, he said.
Khamenei’s statement frames the unrest not just as a domestic issue but as part of a broader struggle between Iran and what he calls aggressive global powers. Analysts note that such rhetoric is consistent with Tehran’s historical narrative of resisting foreign interference, particularly from Western nations and Israel.
Broader Context
Iran has faced recurrent protests over economic hardship, political restrictions, and social policies. According to local human rights groups, inflation in Iran has exceeded 40% over the past year, significantly impacting daily life. Meanwhile, US sanctions continue to exert pressure on the Iranian economy, complicating efforts to address public grievances.
The Supreme Leader’s comments suggest that while some protests may be rooted in legitimate grievances, the Iranian government views them primarily through the lens of national security and foreign subversion.
By framing the unrest as a failed foreign-backed attempt at rebellion, Khamenei reinforces the narrative of Iranian resilience and unity against external threats -a central theme in the country’s domestic and foreign policy discourse.
