Protests in Iran continue despite the government’s warning of taking action against protesters after internet and telephone lines were shut down and videos of the demonstrations have also surfaced on social media. At least 65 people have died in the protests that began in late December over Iran’s deteriorating economy. In a video broadcast on Iran’s state TV, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, ignoring US President Donald Trump’s warning, said that America’s hands are stained with the blood of Iranians.
The footage showed Khamenei’s supporters chanting “Death to America.” State media described the protesters as “terrorists.” Fears of a violent crackdown on protesters, unlike any seen in recent years, have grown in Iran. Trump has expressed support for peaceful demonstrations and said he would not hesitate to use force if necessary. Khamenei, 86, told supporters at his compound in Tehran that protesters were ruining their lives to please the US president. He (Trump) said he would come to their aid. Instead, they should focus on the situation in their own country. Iran’s judiciary chief, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Eje’i, said the protesters would be given decisive and maximum punishment without any legal leniency.
Donald Trump has said that the US will attack Iran if protesters are killed in Iran. Trump’s warning is being taken very seriously after the US action against Venezuela. Trump said on Friday that if the US attacks, it will not mean sending troops on the ground, but it will mean hitting the enemy very hard where it has the most impact. Trump said, “I tell the leaders of Iran, don’t start shooting, because if you do, we will do the same (against you).”