Khamenei defies Trump's threats amid escalating protests and a crippling economic crisis in Iran

Khamenei defies Trump's threats amid escalating protests and a crippling economic crisis in Iran

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, vowed not to succumb to what he called “external pressures and threats,” responding to statements by US President Donald Trump who hinted at possible intervention in support of protesters. This comes as Iran grapples with escalating internal unrest fueled by a worsening economic crisis and soaring inflation. In a recorded address broadcast on Iranian state television on Saturday, Khamenei declared that the Islamic Republic “will not submit to the enemy,” emphasizing that the actions of those he termed “rioters” must be “put to an end.” This statement clearly signals a potential crackdown on the protests that have gripped the country for days. These remarks come amid heightened domestic tensions. Human rights groups have reported more than ten deaths and dozens of arrests during demonstrations that erupted last Sunday in several Iranian cities, sparked by the sharp decline in living standards following the collapse of the local currency and …