Iran blames US, Israel for attack

Iranian Foreign Minister Araghchi said during a meeting with foreign ambassadors, "We have recordings of voice messages sent to terrorists from abroad: if there is police, shoot at the police; if not, attack the population. The only important thing is that the number of casualties grows, that more blood is shed." He noted that "currently, the country's authorities have brought the protest situation under control." Araghchi added that Tehran is "fully ready for war with the United States if necessary." Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump previously stated he would deliver unprecedented strikes against Iran if American military or commercial facilities were attacked.

At the end of 2025, protests began in Iran due to the devaluation of the Iranian rial, leading to increased wholesale and retail prices. From January 8, demonstrations became larger in scale; in some cities, rallies escalated into clashes with security forces and included slogans against the current political system. Casualties have been reported on both sides. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian promised to continue economic reforms and resolve the emerging problems, blaming the United States and Israel for orchestrating the unrest.

Context

At the end of 2025, mass protests erupted in Iran due to economic failure and the devaluation of the national currency, leading to rising prices and confrontations with law enforcement agencies.