Iran’s President Vows Economic Fixes Amid Growing Unrest and Deadly Clashes

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(ANW) – Iran’s President, Masoud Pezeshkian, has promised major changes to fix the country’s struggling economy. This comes during two weeks of large and often violent nationwide protests. The protests started over poor economic conditions but have grown to include anti-government calls.

In an interview on state TV on Sunday, President Pezeshkian tried to sound understanding. He said his government is “ready to listen to its people” and will work to solve economic problems. However, he also blamed the United States and Israel for making the protests worse and causing deaths.

Protests Over Money Turn Political

The crisis began in late December when Iran’s currency, the rial, lost much of its value very quickly. For years, Iranians have dealt with high prices, inflation, and unemployment due to American sanctions and government management. The sudden currency drop was the last straw for many, leading to street demonstrations.

While the protests began about the high cost of living, they have since turned into a broader challenge against Iran’s leadership. These are the biggest protests since the 2022-2023 movement that followed the death of Mahsa Amini, a young woman who died after being arrested by morality police.

Government Draws a Line: Protesters vs. “Rioters”

In his speech, Pezeshkian made a clear separation between regular Iranians with complaints and those he called “rioters” and “trained terrorists.”

“Our goal is to distribute everything we have fairly among the people,” he said, asking for national unity. He added, “People have concerns. We should sit with them… But the higher duty is not to allow a group of rioters to come and destroy the entire society.”

This line was repeated by Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf. He said Iran recognizes “people’s peaceful protests over economic concerns” but will stand against “terrorists.”

High Death Toll and Internet Blackout

The protests have turned deadly. Iranian state media says 109 security force members have been killed. Opposition activists outside Iran say the total death toll is higher and includes dozens of protesters. Al Jazeera and ANW cannot independently confirm these numbers.

To control information, Iran has severely limited internet access for more than 60 hours, according to internet watchdogs. This makes it hard for news to get out and for people to organize.

US and Israel Accused; Trump’s Warning

President Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of trying to “sow chaos and disorder” by guiding parts of the unrest.

His comments came after former US President Donald Trump made strong statements on social media. Trump said the US stood “ready to help” the Iranian people and suggested possible military strikes, though he ruled out sending American ground troops.

In response, Iran’s Parliament Speaker Ghalibaf issued a threat: “In the case of an attack on Iran, the occupied territories [Israel] as well as all US bases and ships will be our legitimate target.”

What Happens Next?

The Iranian government claims the unrest is slowing down. The country’s attorney general has warned that some protesters could face the death penalty for their actions.

Analysts say President Pezeshkian, who was elected as a reform-minded leader, is walking a difficult line. He is trying to show he hears the public’s anger over the economy while not weakening the government’s authority or inviting further foreign pressure.

For now, the streets appear tense but quieter. The internet blackout continues, making the full situation unclear. The world is watching to see if Pezeshkian’s promises of economic overhaul will calm the public, or if the deep frustrations will boil over again.

Key Points to Remember:

· Why: Protests started over a crashing currency and terrible economy.
· Size: Biggest demonstrations since the 2022 Mahsa Amini protests.
· Government Says: They will listen to economic complaints but will crush “rioters” and “terrorists” they blame on the US and Israel.
· Deaths: State media says over 100 police/security killed; activists say many protesters also dead.
· Internet: Nationwide blackout for days to control information.
· International: Former US President Trump threatened military action; Iran threatened to hit back at US and Israeli targets if attacked.