TEHRAN: Ongoing protests in Iran have erupted into widespread unrest, drawing the ire of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who has issued a stark warning to U.S. President Donald Trump. In a televised address, Khamenei criticized the U.S. for "interfering" in Iran's internal matters, as demonstrations have now infiltrated over 100 cities nationwide.

Khamenei condemned the protesters, labeling their actions as destructive and detrimental to the nation. "Our enemies don’t know Iran. Their flawed planning will once again end in failure," he declared, denouncing foreign interventions. He also referenced comments from Trump suggesting U.S. support for demonstrators, implying that such rhetoric only exacerbates tensions. The protests, ignited by grievances over economic hardships and political repression, have escalated since late December, with reports of live ammunition being fired in some areas.

The Iranian government has moved to control the situation by cutting internet services and landline communications, cutting off a vital means of organization and information for demonstrators. Exiled Iranian Prince Reza Pahlavi, who has called for public uprising, criticized the shutdown, saying, "Millions of Iranians demanded their freedom tonight. It is time for the world to support them."

International responses have emerged, with France urging restraint from Iranian authorities and Turkey canceling flights to Iran amid the escalating turmoil. The profound societal discontent is revealed as citizens shout anti-government slogans from their homes, spurred on by exiled leadership figures. As the regime attempts to quell dissent through drastic measures, the future of Iran's stability hangs in the balance, invoking questions about the resilience of its people against oppressive governance.