Pezeshkian bombshell after Khamenei warning, breaks silence with regime-style warning amid protests

Iran’s reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian struck a tougher tone as nationwide protests entered their third week, warning that while public grievances must be addressed, the state will not allow what he called “violent agitators” to destabilise society. A U.S.-based rights group reported at least 203 deaths, including 162 protesters, and more than 3,280 arrests, though Iranian authorities have released no official figures. The unrest, triggered by Iran’s currency collapse, has escalated into direct challenges to the ruling system, as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei rejected U.S. threats and vowed a firm response. Tensions remain high amid warnings involving the U.S. and Israel.