Trump urges new leadership in Iran as protests surge
Trump urges new leadership in Iran as protests surge
As protests widen and crackdowns continue, Trump calls for ending Ayatollah Khamenei's 37-year rule and embracing new leadership in Iran.
In Tehran, weeks of protests against economic hardship, political restrictions, and governance have continued as security forces crack down, with reports of casualties. President Trump renewed his call for new leadership in Iran, arguing the regime survives through repression and violence and suggesting it may be time for a change at the top as demonstrations spread across major cities. The Iranian leadership has faced sustained protests over economic hardship, political restrictions, and persistent calls for reform.
Khamenei struck back, accusing Trump of responsibility for violence and calling him criminal for spreading slander against Iranians. He warned against foreign meddling, insisting Iran's leadership will stand firm and that the people will decide their own fate.
The exchange comes amid years of U.S.-Iran tensions and past threats of intervention from Washington, while Tehran accuses the U.S. of trying to destabilize the country.
Analysts say the public protests expose deep-seated grievances about the economy and political rights, and their outcome remains uncertain as authorities vow to maintain order. External pressure can spotlight demands for change, but it is unclear whether it will translate into meaningful reform inside Iran.
