Iranian leader vows to tackle economic crisis amid nationwide protests

(MENAFN) Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian declared on Sunday that his administration is committed to tackling the country’s economic challenges as demonstrations continue to spread across multiple regions.

Speaking in his first public remarks since unrest began last month, Pezeshkian claimed that Iran’s “enemies are seeking to sow chaos and instability” in the aftermath of last June’s 12 day conflict with Israel. He condemned recent attacks on public sites, including mosques, in Tehran and other cities, attributing the violence to U.S. and Israeli involvement.

The protests, initially sparked by the sharp depreciation of the rial and worsening living conditions, turned violent last week. While official casualty figures have not been released, outside organizations estimate at least 116 deaths, including both protesters and security forces, with more than 1,000 injuries reported.

Authorities in Tehran accuse Washington and Tel Aviv of supporting armed groups behind the unrest, pointing to incidents where government offices, banks, buses, and mosques were set ablaze. Internet service has also been suspended nationwide, further isolating the population.

Pezeshkian alleged that foreign powers were “training certain groups” and importing “terrorists from abroad” to attack mosques, markets, and public spaces. “They have killed some with weapons, burned others, and beheaded some. Truly, these crimes are beyond our people’s nature. These are not our people. They do not belong to this country. If someone protests for this country, we listen and address their concerns,” he said.

Acknowledging his government’s “shortcomings and problems,” Pezeshkian insisted that efforts are underway to ease public grievances, particularly those tied to the economy.

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