Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused former U.S. President Donald Trump and the United States of orchestrating the deaths of thousands of people during recent anti-government protests. Khamenei alleged direct foreign involvement in the violence that occurred over several weeks.

Khamenei's statement, released on January 18, 2026, did not provide specific evidence to support the claim of Trump's direct involvement. The protests, which began weeks prior, were reportedly sparked by economic grievances and dissatisfaction with the Iranian government.

The Iranian government has consistently blamed foreign entities, including the United States and its allies, for fomenting unrest within the country. These accusations often surface during periods of heightened political tension or public dissent.

The U.S. State Department has previously denied any involvement in instigating the protests, asserting that they are a result of the Iranian people expressing their legitimate concerns about the government's policies. The U.S. has long been critical of Iran's human rights record and has imposed sanctions on the country for its nuclear program and support of regional proxies.

The protests and subsequent government response have drawn international condemnation, with human rights organizations expressing concern over the use of force against demonstrators and the suppression of dissent. The exact number of casualties during the protests remains disputed, with conflicting reports from government sources and independent observers.

The current status of the protests is unclear, with reports of ongoing demonstrations in some areas and increased security measures in others. The Iranian government has vowed to crack down on what it describes as "foreign-backed agitators" and maintain order. The situation remains volatile, and further developments are expected in the coming days.