Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has stated that the people of Iran have the right to protest, but emphasized that the current unrest is being fueled by “foreign terrorists” brought in from abroad. In a televised interview on Sunday, Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of meddling in the country’s internal affairs, claiming that they are egging on rioters and terrorists embedded among the protesters.
The unrest in Iran erupted late last month, sparked by hyperinflation and a worsening economic crisis. The government is attempting to address the public’s concerns, according to Pezeshkian, who told state broadcaster IRIB that the “chaos” is being escalated by rioters and terrorists rather than Iranians with legitimate grievances.
Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of training terrorists inside and outside the country, bringing them into Iran, and setting fire to mosques, bazaars, and guilds. He emphasized that these individuals do not belong to Iran and that if someone has legitimate grievances, they should be allowed to protest and have their concerns heard and addressed.
Violent clashes between protesters and authorities have resulted in dozens of deaths among Iranian security forces and civilian bystanders. Multiple mosques, medical centers, and other buildings have been torched across the country. A nationwide internet blackout was imposed in Iran on Thursday, which is still in effect.
The US has expressed readiness to intervene directly, with President Donald Trump stating that the country is ready to help. This development comes after the US joined an Israeli attack on several of Iran’s major nuclear sites last summer, amid allegations that Tehran was pursuing a nuclear weapon – allegations that Iran has denied, insisting that its program is purely peaceful.
The situation in Iran continues to escalate, with the international community watching closely. The Iranian government’s efforts to address the public’s concerns and restore order will be crucial in determining the outcome of the current unrest.