During his speech, broadcast on state television, Khamenei described U.S. President Donald Trump as a "criminal" responsible for "victims, damage, and slander against the Iranian people."
According to Khamenei, Trump incited the protesters, even promising them military assistance.
He also added that the protesters were armed with firearms, which he claimed came from abroad, but did not specify from which country.
In addition, the Supreme Leader of Iran noted that the authorities would act against participants in the protests and anyone whom the government believes is involved in organizing them.
"We are not leading the country into a state of war. However, we will not leave internal offenders unpunished, and international criminals will also not be forgotten," Khamenei stated.
