Tehran, Jan 17 (V7N) — Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has strongly criticized US President Donald Trump, calling him a “criminal” and directly blaming the United States for the recent unrest in Iran.

According to a report by Iran International, Khamenei made the remarks in a speech on Saturday (January 17), accusing Washington of orchestrating instability inside the country.

“We see the US president as a criminal for the casualties, damage and slander that have been inflicted on the Iranian people,” Khamenei said.

He alleged that the recent unrest was part of an American conspiracy, claiming that the United States aimed to destabilize and dominate Iran. “This unrest was an American plot. The US’s goal is to engulf Iran,” he asserted.

Khamenei further claimed that President Trump personally intervened in the situation by encouraging protesters and promising military support, accusing Washington of acting as the “mastermind” behind the disturbances.

The Iranian leader reiterated that the United States has long sought to undermine Iran’s sovereignty and exert influence over the country through political and social unrest.

The remarks come amid heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington, following renewed protests and increasing geopolitical strain in the region.

END/SMA/AJ