WEB DESK: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has delivered an intense condemnation of U.S. President Donald Trump, accusing him of bearing responsibility for Iranian casualties during recent events and describing his actions as an insult to the Iranian people.
During a passionate address, Khamenei held Trump accountable for the alleged deaths of over a thousand Iranians during what he labeled a “twelve-day war.” Among those killed, Khamenei claimed, were civilians as well as prominent figures in Iran’s military and scientific communities. He cited Trump’s statements, in which the U.S. president reportedly admitted to issuing orders during the conflict, interpreting these remarks as a direct acknowledgment of culpability. According to Khamenei, Trump’s claims of supporting the Iranian people were nothing more than deceptive rhetoric, undermined by his actions.
Khamenei also issued stern warnings regarding individuals he referred to as “rioters” and “vandals,” accusing them of damaging public property in Tehran and other cities to align themselves with American interests. He alleged that these actions were attempts to curry favor with Washington, denouncing such behavior as serving foreign agendas and emphasizing that the Iranian population would not accept betrayal or subservience to external powers.
Turning to the nation’s youth, the supreme leader called for unity and alertness, asserting that collective strength would enable Iran to overcome its challenges. He emphasized the resilience and sacrifices that have defined the Islamic Republic since its inception, expressing confidence in its ability to withstand external pressure or internal turmoil. Furthermore, Khamenei harshly criticized Trump for intervening in Iranian affairs, suggesting the U.S. leader should prioritize resolving domestic issues rather than meddling abroad.
Drawing predictions from history, Khamenei warned that leaders who exhibit arrogance often face downfall, referencing figures like Pharaoh, Nimrod, and Iran’s former rulers Reza Shah and Mohammad Reza Shah. In this context, Khamenei implied that Trump might encounter a similar fate but stopped short of providing detailed analysis.
The comments coincided with escalating unrest across Iran, marked by widespread demonstrations fueled by economic struggles and political dissatisfaction. In response to the growing protests, Iranian authorities have imposed internet restrictions nationwide to limit information flow.
Earlier, Trump refrained from meeting with Iran’s self-proclaimed Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, an indication of Washington’s hesitance to officially endorse any individual as a successor to Iran’s current leadership. While condemning violent crackdowns on protesters, Trump maintained a cautious stance, avoiding explicit support for specific opposition figures within Iran.
