Iran Leaders Issue Warnings Amid Rising Protests

Army chief hits out at foreign ‘rhetoric’ targeting Iran, threatens decisive action to ‘cut off hand of any aggressor’.

Amid escalating protests in Iran over economic turmoil, Army Chief Major-General Amir Hatami warned of a strong military response to any aggression, criticizing foreign rhetoric from the US and Israel. Following US President Trump’s threats against Iran’s treatment of protesters, Chief Justice Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei declared there would be no leniency for protesters aiding foreign enemies. The demonstrations, triggered by economic mismanagement and sanctions, have resulted in numerous casualties and arrests. In an effort to quell unrest, the Iranian government has initiated small financial subsidies for essential goods.