Iran leader says anti-government protesters are vandals trying to please Trump

BBC News - WorldCenterEN 4 min read 100% complete January 9, 2026 at 07:37 PM

AI Summary

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Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has denounced anti-government protesters as "troublemakers" and "vandals" seeking to please US President Donald Trump. The protests, sparked by economic grievances on December 28th, have evolved into widespread calls for regime change, with some advocating for the restoration of the monarchy. At least 48 protesters and 14 security personnel have reportedly been killed, and over 2,277 individuals have been arrested amid an internet blackout. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has warned it will not tolerate the ongoing unrest. Reza Pahlavi, son of the former Shah, has urged Trump to intervene and support the Iranian people. Protests have occurred across the country, with demonstrators chanting slogans against Khamenei.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Zahedan 30% Tehran 40% Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps 50% BBC Persian ×250% Reza Pahlavi ×260% United States 60% Islamic Republic ×270% Donald Trump ×380% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×390% Iran ×590%

Keywords

anti-government protests 100% iran 90% ayatollah ali khamenei 80% islamic republic 70% donald trump 60% internet blackout 50% security personnel 50% human rights 40% economy 40%