In a fiery televised interview on January 11, 2026, President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of backing “rioters” to plunge Iran into chaos following last June’s 12-day Iran–Israel clash. 👀
He claimed foreign-backed “terrorists” are targeting civilians and public spaces. Pezeshkian urged Iranians to steer clear of these groups and highlighted his government’s push for a new subsidy reform — aiming to stabilize prices, boost production, and strengthen supply chains.
Today’s announcement comes amid a major crackdown: Police Chief Ahmad Reza Radan revealed that key protest organisers were rounded up on January 10 and now face legal action. Meanwhile, Special Forces commander Masoud Mossadegh said eight security officers lost their lives in efforts to calm protests over January 8–9.
Security sources say around 200 alleged “terrorist leaders and operation commanders” have been detained nationwide. Authorities seized weapons — from grenades to Molotov cocktails — and reported dozens of homes, mosques, banks, malls, and government buildings torched.
Protests originally erupted over rising living costs and a weaker currency, but many officials now blame external forces. As tensions simmer, all eyes are on how these sweeping reforms and tight security measures will shape Iran’s stability in the coming weeks.
Stay tuned for more updates! 🔍
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
