Iran's Supreme Leader accused the United States of being responsible for the losses during the large protests, while human rights groups reported that the death toll has surpassed 3,000.
Foreign news agencies reported on 17 Jan 2026 that Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's Supreme Leader, accused the United States and Donald Trump of being behind the “losses, damages, and defamation” occurring in his country amid the large protests over several weeks.
In a speech on Saturday (17 Jan), Khamenei acknowledged that thousands have died during the protests and said some deaths were caused in an inhumane and brutal manner, but he blamed “terrorist groups” for these acts.
Meanwhile, the U.S. president encouraged anti-government protesters in Iran to “keep protesting” and threatened military intervention if security forces kill those protesters.
According to data from the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), based in the U.S., the protests in Iran have resulted in 3,090 deaths. The unrest began on 28 Dec due to dissatisfaction with economic problems, which then escalated into anti-government demonstrations.
However, the government labeled the protests as riots supported by Iran's enemies and has heavily suppressed the protesters. Additionally, nearly all internet and communication services in the country have been cut off, with connectivity on Saturday (17 Jan) at only 2% of normal levels.
Reports of unrest in Iran have declined in recent days, but analysts say that because internet access remains restricted, the true situation on the ground remains unclear.
During his Saturday speech, Khamenei also called President Trump a “criminal” and stated that the U.S. must “take responsibility” for the unrest. He accused America of aiming to swallow up Iran.
On the other hand, the U.S. State Department revealed it has received reports that Iran is preparing various options to attack American bases. Iran would face “extremely powerful forces” if such attacks occur, and Washington warned Tehran not to “play games with President Trump.”
The U.S. president said on Wednesday (14 Jan) that he had been informed that “the killings in Iran have stopped,” but added that he had not ruled out military action against the country.
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Source:bbc