‘Targeting Khamenei Means War,’ Iran Tells US Amid Rising Unrest And 5,000 Deaths

Iran: Tensions between Iran and the US deepened when Tehran warned that if its supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei was targeted, it would be considered a direct war. This statement came at a time when massive protests were going on in many parts of the country and reports of deaths of thousands of people were coming to the fore. Meanwhile, there were also indications from the government that death penalty could be restarted in cases related to unrest.

What kind of warning did Iran give to America?

Iranian President Massoud Pezeshkian publicly said that any "unwarranted attack" would be met with a harsh response. He clearly said that if Khamenei were harmed, it would be considered an attack on the entire Iranian nation. His statement was considered a strong message for America.

Why did Trump's statement increase the controversy?

US President Donald Trump recently said that Iran needs new leadership. Earlier he had also claimed that the Iranian administration has temporarily stopped the proposed execution of hundreds of prisoners. After these comments from Trump, the rhetoric between the two countries intensified and the situation became more sensitive.

How and where did the protests start?

According to reports, the protests first started in the Grand Bazaar area of ​​Tehran over inflation, unemployment, and economic crisis. Within a few days, this movement started taking political color and spread to many cities of the country. Students, shopkeepers, women and youth took to the streets in large numbers and raised slogans against the government.

What steps did the government take to handle the situation?

As the situation worsened, the administration blocked internet services, and heavy deployment of security forces was made in many cities. Clashes took place between protesters and security forces at many places. Government figures give a limited number of deaths, but independent reports claim thousands of deaths. Especially in the Kurdish-dominated areas of northwestern Iran, the situation was said to be more serious.

What indications are there now regarding death penalty?

Iran's judiciary has said that some cases have been classified as "Mohareb", or war against God, which carries the death penalty. It has become clear that the government is in a mood to take a tough stance on the protests and the situation may become more tense in the coming days.