Iran Faces Ongoing Unrest as Supreme Leader Confirms Thousands Killed

Iran remained under heavy security presence on Saturday as authorities continued efforts to suppress nationwide unrest following weeks of protests, according to officials and rights groups.

In a rare public statement, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged that thousands of people were killed during the unrest, marking the first official admission of the scale of casualties. He blamed foreign powers for fueling the protests and accused the United States and its allies of interference. Iranian authorities have not released an official death toll.

Human rights organizations estimate that more than 3,000 people may have been killed since demonstrations erupted late last month, initially over economic conditions before expanding into broader political dissent. The government disputes those figures.

Security forces remain deployed in major cities, including Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz, and Mashhad. Internet access continues to be heavily restricted, limiting independent verification of conditions on the ground. State media reported that order has largely been restored, though activists say sporadic protests and arrests are ongoing.

Iranian officials have warned that further demonstrations will be met with firm action. Several senior figures have described protesters as criminals or foreign-backed agitators.

International reaction has intensified. Western governments have condemned the crackdown and called for accountability, while former U.S. President Donald Trump said Iran needs “new leadership,” drawing sharp criticism from Tehran.

Diplomatic efforts are underway to prevent further escalation, as regional governments monitor the situation amid fears of wider instability in the Middle East.