Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Monday warned the United States to halt what he described as “deceitful actions” and reliance on “traitorous hirelings,” amid rising tensions with Washington.
In a post on X, Khamenei said nationwide pro-government rallies held across Iran demonstrated public resolve against foreign pressure. He said the turnout sent a message to US leaders to stop what he termed interference in Iran’s internal affairs.
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White House Says Military Options Remain
The warning came as the White House confirmed that military options remain under consideration. White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt said Donald Trump was keeping “all options on the table,” including possible airstrikes.
Speaking to reporters, Leavitt stressed that diplomacy remains Washington’s preferred approach but said the administration was concerned by reports of a violent crackdown on protesters in Iran.
Trump Signals Red Lines Over Protest Deaths
Trump said a day earlier that Iran appeared to have crossed a red line following reports of protesters being killed. He warned that the US military was examining “very strong options,” even as he acknowledged that Iranian officials had reached out seeking talks.
Iran’s foreign ministry has confirmed that a communication channel remains open between Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and US special envoy Steve Witkoff, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations.
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Unrest, Crackdown and State-Backed Rallies
Iran is facing its most serious unrest in years. According to rights groups, at least 648 people have been killed, including minors, with thousands injured and an estimated 10,000 arrested during a crackdown on protests that began over economic grievances and expanded into a broader challenge to clerical rule.
Authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign interference and imposed internet restrictions, which rights groups say have limited independent verification of the violence. On Monday, state-organised rallies were held nationwide, with officials declaring the protests defeated.
International Reaction
The European Union has expressed support for protesters and said it is considering additional sanctions over the repression. France condemned what it described as indiscriminate state violence, while Russia criticised alleged foreign interference in Iran’s domestic affairs.
Despite official claims that calm is returning, protests have continued in several cities, and rights organisations warn the death toll could be higher than confirmed figures.
