New Delhi: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a sharp warning to the United States, urging it to halt what he described as deceitful actions and interference, as tensions escalated over Washington’s consideration of possible airstrikes on Iran. His remarks came amid mounting unrest inside the country and growing international concern over a deadly crackdown on protesters.
Khamenei’s statement followed large scale pro government rallies organised across Iran, which authorities said reflected public backing for the Islamic Republic. He described the demonstrations as evidence that the Iranian nation had reaffirmed its identity and determination in the face of what he portrayed as hostile foreign pressure. According to him, the rallies sent a clear message to external powers to stop relying on destabilising tactics and internal collaborators.
The warning coincided with comments from the White House indicating that military action remained a possibility. US officials said President Donald Trump continued to keep all options available, including airstrikes, while monitoring developments closely. Although diplomacy was described as the preferred path, Washington acknowledged a sharp contrast between Iran’s public statements and private messages exchanged through indirect channels.
Trump has publicly expressed alarm over reports of protesters being killed, suggesting that Iran had crossed a red line. He indicated that strong measures were under consideration and noted that Iranian officials had sought dialogue, even as he signaled that action could precede any formal meeting. Despite the absence of direct diplomatic relations, communication channels between senior representatives on both sides remain open.
The confrontation unfolds against the backdrop of Iran’s most severe unrest in years. Protests that began over economic grievances have expanded into widespread demonstrations challenging the clerical leadership. Rights groups estimate that more than 600 people have been killed, including children, with thousands injured and roughly 10,000 detained. Authorities have imposed internet restrictions, complicating efforts to independently verify the scale of the violence.
On Monday, the government showcased nationwide rallies in support of the state, declaring the protest movement defeated. Senior leaders warned that Iran faced pressure on multiple fronts and vowed a strong response to any external attack. Meanwhile, international reactions remain divided, with some countries condemning the crackdown and others criticising foreign involvement, as unrest continues in several Iranian cities.
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