Khamenei blames foreign powers for deadly unrest, saying protests left thousands dead and massive damage.
Tehran — January 17, 2026 Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has accused actors linked to the United States and Israel of orchestrating violence during recent antigovernment protests, alleging that “several thousands” of people were killed in the unrest.
Speaking on Saturday, Khamenei said the demonstrations, which convulsed the country for more than two weeks, caused “massive damage” and claimed thousands of lives. He described US President Donald Trump as a “criminal,” asserting that Washington played a central role in what he called an international plot against Iran.
Iranian authorities have repeatedly blamed foreign powers for fueling instability, but Khamenei’s remarks mark the first time the country’s top authority has spoken of casualties in the thousands. Until now, officials had acknowledged only hundreds of deaths, including members of the security forces.
Reporting from Tehran, Al Jazeera’s Resul Serdar Atas noted that Khamenei’s comments reaffirmed Iran’s longstanding position but introduced a significant new claim on the scale of fatalities. Rights groups, including HRANA, have also suggested the death toll is far higher than official figures, estimating more than 3,000 killed.
Khamenei warned that while Iran would avoid escalation beyond its borders, those deemed responsible would face consequences. “We will not drag the country into war, but we will not let domestic or international criminals go unpunished,” he said.
Authorities say around 3,000 people have been arrested in connection with the protests.
