Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has characterized anti-government protesters as "troublemakers" attempting "to please the president of the US," according to reports from the West Asia News Agency (WANA). The protests, which have persisted for 13 days, initially stemmed from economic grievances but have expanded to include calls for the end of the Islamic Republic and, in some instances, the restoration of the monarchy.

The Iranian government has also formally communicated its position to the United Nations Security Council, attributing the escalation of the protests into "violent subversive acts and widespread vandalism" to the United States.

Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump stated on Friday that Iran was "in big trouble." He added, "We will be hitting them very hard where it hurts," while also noting that the U.S. administration was closely monitoring the situation in Iran. Trump clarified that any potential U.S. involvement would not entail "boots on the ground."

Human rights groups estimate that at least 48 protesters and 14 security personnel have been killed during the unrest. An internet blackout is currently in effect within Iran.

The protests represent the largest demonstrations seen in Iran in recent years. The international community continues to observe the situation as it unfolds, with varying perspectives on the underlying causes and potential resolutions.