Protests in Iran have intensified sharply, with demonstrations turning violent from the night of January 8, 2026. Reports indicate that internet and network services were blocked as unrest spread nationwide. Anti-government protests are taking place in more than 111 cities across the country, marking one of the most widespread waves of dissent in recent times.
Amid the escalating situation, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a televised address on January 9, 2026. The speech was broadcast on state television across Tehran as well as major cities and rural areas. In his address, Khamenei warned those involved in violence and unrest, accusing them of deliberately creating chaos in the country.
Khamenei also issued a strong warning to foreign nations, including the United States, against interfering in Iran’s internal affairs. Without naming specific actions, he advised US President Donald Trump to focus on domestic issues instead of commenting on Iran. He asserted that Iran would not bow to external pressure and would remain firm against what he described as foreign interference.
Taking a tough stance, the Supreme Leader said that individuals he labelled as “terrorist agents” would not be tolerated and would face serious consequences. He cautioned that unnecessary disturbances and attacks on public property would lead to severe repercussions, stressing that Iran had already issued sufficient warnings to its people.
Earlier, US President Donald Trump had warned the Iranian government against attempting to suppress the protests. In an interview, Trump said that while it is common for authorities to try to contain unrest, any violent crackdown this time would invite strong intervention from the United States, signalling heightened tensions between Washington and Tehran.