ALBAWABA - Iranian officials on Friday leveled accusations against Israel, claiming the nation is trying to sow discord within Iran. They described the situation as a multifaceted assault of pressure, conspiracy, and unrest, as protests continued to gain momentum across the country.
The Iranian army stated that "the enemy" is trying to destabilize the nation through a new plot, allegedly orchestrated by Israel. They urged citizens to stay united and alert. The military's statement also cautioned that the armed forces are closely monitoring regional developments and are ready to take decisive action against any threats to national security.
These accusations surfaced amidst a tense internal climate, with anti-government protests occurring alongside pro-government demonstrations. Internet outages have continued as security forces work to control the unrest.
"No Peace, No Ceasefire"
Iran's Supreme National Security Council secretary, as reported by the semi-official Fars News Agency, placed the blame for the current circumstances squarely on Israel. He emphasized that Iran is "in the midst of war," with no ceasefire or period of calm in effect.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also weighed in, stating that protecting the nation's security and the achievements of the Islamic Revolution is a "red line" that must not be crossed.
IRGC intelligence officials further stated that hostile entities have moved away from direct military engagement. Instead, they are now focused on destabilizing Iran from within by fomenting unrest. They alleged that foreign intelligence agencies are orchestrating a phased plan, utilizing militant groups to stoke protests and undermine the state's authority.
Accusations Against the US
Iran's UN ambassador, Amir Saeid Iravani, leveled accusations against the United States, alleging its involvement in transforming peaceful demonstrations into widespread unrest. In a letter addressed to the UN Security Council, he denounced what Tehran viewed as ongoing illegal and reckless interference by Washington, allegedly in collusion with Israel, through threats and incitement designed to destabilize the nation.
Internationally, the response was swift.
European leaders voiced their condemnation of what they characterized as the killing of protesters in Iran. In a joint statement, the leaders of France, Germany, and the United Kingdom expressed deep concern over reports of violence perpetrated by Iranian security forces, urging authorities to safeguard civilians.
Foreign ministers from Australia, Canada, and the European Union joined forces, calling on Iran to cease its "excessive and deadly" force against those protesting.
The United States, for its part, expressed solidarity with the Iranian demonstrators. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated that Washington supports the "brave people of Iran," and US officials dismissed Iranian assertions that the US was behind the unrest. President Donald Trump cautioned that the US would act if Iran escalated its crackdown.
Protests and Economic Pressure
Iranian authorities reported that over 270 police officers have sustained injuries since the protests commenced. Activists have been sharing videos that depict demonstrations in Tehran and other significant cities, such as Isfahan, Mashhad, Shiraz, Kermanshah, and Ahvaz, where a substantial security presence is evident.
The protests were initially ignited by skyrocketing prices and worsening living standards, a direct consequence of the national currency's steep decline. The US dollar experienced a more than 21 percent increase in December alone, while official inflation figures exceeded 40 percent; however, some analysts believe the actual rate is considerably higher.
With internal tensions escalating and external rhetoric intensifying, the situation has intensified worries about a potential further escalation, both within Iran and throughout the region.
