Iran accuses foreign intelligence of being behind protest movement

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by Simon Speakman CordallJanuary 14, 2026 at 09:25 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

In January 2026, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused Israel and the United States of instigating ongoing unrest within Iran. Pezeshkian claimed on state television that foreign entities, including those involved in Israel's June military actions, are training individuals and importing terrorists to escalate the protests, citing attacks on a bazaar and mosques. These accusations follow increasing signals from U.S. President Donald Trump of potential intervention. An Israeli minister hinted at ongoing covert operations within Iran, while former U.S. Secretary of State Mike Pompeo acknowledged the presence of Israeli agents. The Iranian government is shifting blame for internal issues like the economy and suppression of dissent to external forces.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

CIA 30% Amichai Eliyahu 30% Rasht 30% Rising Lion 40% IRIB 40% Mike Pompeo 40% Mossad 40% Donald Trump ×250% Masoud Pezeshkian ×260% United States ×270% Israel ×680% Iran ×1290%

Keywords

protest movement 90% foreign intelligence 80% destabilising protests 70% covert operations 60% foreign intervention 60% israeli agents 50% economic unrest 50% regime change 40%