TEHRAN, JAN 19: Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a strong warning on Sunday. He said any attack on Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei would be a declaration of war. This came in response to US President Donald Trump’s recent comments.
Trump said it was time to look for a new leader in Iran. Pezeshkian stated on social media, “An attack on the great leader of our country is tantamount to a full-scale war with the Iranian nation.”
The warning follows violent protests that began in late December. The protests started over economic hardship and grew into a major challenge for the government.
Authorities imposed a nationwide internet blackout on January 8 as the demonstrations intensified. A monitor reported that limited internet access finally returned on Sunday after 10 days.
Iranian officials claim the protests were peaceful at first. They blame the violence on “riots” fueled by foreign influence from the US and Israel.
In a recent interview, Trump directly targeted Khamenei. He said, “Time to look for new leadership in Iran.” Trump had previously threatened military action if Iranian protesters were harmed.
Despite the war of words, Iranian officials say calm has returned to the streets. Security forces with armoured vehicles were seen patrolling central Tehran.
Schools reopened on Sunday after being closed for a week. Authorities also announced a gradual restoration of internet access across the country.
Meanwhile, the judiciary has warned of severe consequences for protesters. Officials said swift trials would be held. Some could face capital charges like “waging war against God.”
This has raised international alarm over possible executions. The situation remains tense as both countries continue their diplomatic confrontation.
