Iran's President Vows War if Supreme Leader Targeted
In a stark warning, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that any attack on the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, would be considered a full-scale war with Iran. The statement comes amid growing tensions between Tehran and Washington, following recent protests in Iran that have left thousands dead.
Pezeshkian's warning appears to be a direct response to speculation that US President Donald Trump is considering an attempt to assassinate or remove Khamenei. In a post on social media, Pezeshkian described such an attack as "tantamount to a full-scale war with the Iranian nation." The president also blamed the US for the protests, saying that longstanding hostility and inhumane sanctions imposed by Washington have contributed to Iran's economic hardships.
The situation in Iran has been volatile, with widespread protests erupting in December over soaring inflation and economic hardship. The government responded with a near-total shutdown of internet and phone services, cutting off global connectivity and stifling independent reporting. Trump has urged Iranians to continue protesting, calling for them to "take over their institutions" and saying that "help is on its way."
Despite the growing tensions, it appears that no military strikes have been launched against Iran at this time. However, the situation remains fluid, with Israel's prime minister warning Trump that an attack would be met with Iranian retaliation. Saudi Arabia's crown prince has also urged restraint, citing the risks to regional stability.
The protests in Iran have resulted in widespread violence and bloodshed, with reports suggesting that at least 5,000 people have been killed, including about 500 security personnel. The government has blamed "terrorists and armed rioters" for the violence, while Trump has called Khamenei a "criminal."
In a stark warning, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that any attack on the country's supreme leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, would be considered a full-scale war with Iran. The statement comes amid growing tensions between Tehran and Washington, following recent protests in Iran that have left thousands dead.
Pezeshkian's warning appears to be a direct response to speculation that US President Donald Trump is considering an attempt to assassinate or remove Khamenei. In a post on social media, Pezeshkian described such an attack as "tantamount to a full-scale war with the Iranian nation." The president also blamed the US for the protests, saying that longstanding hostility and inhumane sanctions imposed by Washington have contributed to Iran's economic hardships.
The situation in Iran has been volatile, with widespread protests erupting in December over soaring inflation and economic hardship. The government responded with a near-total shutdown of internet and phone services, cutting off global connectivity and stifling independent reporting. Trump has urged Iranians to continue protesting, calling for them to "take over their institutions" and saying that "help is on its way."
Despite the growing tensions, it appears that no military strikes have been launched against Iran at this time. However, the situation remains fluid, with Israel's prime minister warning Trump that an attack would be met with Iranian retaliation. Saudi Arabia's crown prince has also urged restraint, citing the risks to regional stability.
The protests in Iran have resulted in widespread violence and bloodshed, with reports suggesting that at least 5,000 people have been killed, including about 500 security personnel. The government has blamed "terrorists and armed rioters" for the violence, while Trump has called Khamenei a "criminal."