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As protests in Iran wane, a notable shift in rhetoric has emerged from the nation’s leadership. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has recently labeled former U.S. President Donald Trump a criminal, attributing the violence and fatalities during protests to his influence. This accusation comes as the Iranian regime seeks to reassert its authority by lifting certain internet restrictions imposed during the civil unrest.
In a pointed response, Trump has called for a reevaluation of Iran’s leadership, suggesting that it is time for new governance. He characterized the Iranian regime as one that thrives on oppression and violence, criticizing Khamenei’s approach to maintaining control. Trump’s remarks highlight the escalating tension between U.S. and Iranian leadership, as both sides strive to shape the narrative surrounding the protests.
Khamenei’s accusations and Trump’s responses
Khamenei’s comments about Trump were made during a recent address, where he accused the former president of inciting sedition within Iran. He claimed that Trump’s actions have directly contributed to the unrest and the tragic loss of lives among protesters. In response, Trump emphasized that true leadership should not rely on fear and violence, arguing that the Iranian regime’s tactics have led to the country’s degradation.
Trump stated, “What he is guilty of, as the leader of a country, is the complete destruction of the country and the use of violence at levels never seen before.” This statement reflects a broader critique of Khamenei’s governance, which Trump claims lacks respect for the Iranian people.
Impact of violence on protesters
The protests have resulted in tragic consequences, with reports confirming the deaths of several individuals due to government crackdowns. A notable case involved a 24-year-old named Soheil Zilabi, who was shot during demonstrations in Yazdanshahr. Eyewitnesses reported that security forces opened fire on protesters, leading to Zilabi’s death. His family encountered significant challenges in retrieving his body, underscoring the regime’s oppressive response to dissent.
Another casualty, Mohammadreza Zamini, was killed during protests in the Golshahr region. Witnesses recounted how government agents fired on demonstrators, further illustrating the violent tactics employed by Iranian authorities to silence opposition. The fatalities of these individuals have sparked outrage among citizens and drawn international attention to the Iranian regime’s handling of protests.
Government’s response and international implications
In the aftermath of the protests, the Iranian government has opted for a strategy of internet shutdowns rather than addressing the root causes of the unrest. This tactic has resulted in widespread isolation, as citizens are cut off from communication and information. The U.S. State Department has criticized this approach, asserting that it reflects a lack of confidence in the regime’s legitimacy.
The ongoing internet blackout is expected to persist until late March, affecting not just the flow of information but also daily life for many Iranians. Reports indicate that numerous businesses have closed, and citizens are hesitant to venture outside due to fears of violence.
International reactions and travel advisories
Amid escalating tensions, Japan has taken precautionary measures by evacuating some embassy staff and advising citizens to leave Iran as soon as it is safe to do so. This decision arises from increasing concerns about the safety of foreign nationals in the region, particularly with the backdrop of heightened military presence and potential conflict.
Furthermore, Iranian officials, including Naim Qassem of Hezbollah, have aligned with Khamenei in attributing the protests to foreign influence, specifically naming the United States and Israel as instigators. This narrative aims to foster unity against perceived external threats while simultaneously attempting to shift attention away from internal governance issues.
In a pointed response, Trump has called for a reevaluation of Iran’s leadership, suggesting that it is time for new governance. He characterized the Iranian regime as one that thrives on oppression and violence, criticizing Khamenei’s approach to maintaining control. Trump’s remarks highlight the escalating tension between U.S. and Iranian leadership, as both sides strive to shape the narrative surrounding the protests.0