Iran’s Khamenei says US, Israel links behind ‘thousands killed’ in protests

Al JazeeraCenterEN 2 min read 100% complete January 17, 2026 at 12:31 PM

AI Summary

short article 2 min

Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused the United States and Israel of instigating violence during recent protests in Iran, which began over two weeks prior. Speaking on January 17, 2026, Khamenei stated that foreign-linked actors, specifically those connected to the US and Israel, caused significant damage and were responsible for the deaths of thousands. He claimed US President Donald Trump was directly involved in the "anti-Iran sedition." The Iranian government has increasingly blamed foreign powers for the unrest, alleging they are attempting to destabilize the country. Khamenei warned that those responsible, both domestically and internationally, would face consequences, though Iran would avoid escalating the situation into war. The protests are linked to economic hardship and political grievances within Iran.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Tehran 40% Donald Trump ×260% Israel ×370% United States ×480% Ayatollah Ali Khamenei ×290% Iran ×7100%

Keywords

iran protests 100% khamenei 90% united states 80% israel 80% foreign involvement 70% economic hardship 60% political grievances 60% us-iran tensions 50% anti-iran sedition 50% violence 40%