Iran’s Leader Khamenei calls Trump criminal for causing casualties, damage, slander on Iranians

Sat Jan 17 10:56:45 UTC 2026: Headline: Khamenei Condemns Trump, Cites U.S. Involvement in Iranian Protests

The Story:
Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly denounced former U.S. President Donald Trump, labeling him a “criminal” for the casualties, damage, and perceived slander inflicted upon the Iranian people during recent protests in Iran. According to Iranian media reports on January 17, 2026, Khamenei specifically highlighted Trump’s personal involvement as a distinguishing factor in the latest wave of anti-Iran sentiment. This statement comes amid a phased rollback of internet blackouts and the return of some Indian nationals from the protest-affected nation.

Key Points:

• Ayatollah Ali Khamenei considers former U.S. President Donald Trump a “criminal.”
• The condemnation stems from casualties, damage, and slander allegedly inflicted on the Iranian people during protests.
• Khamenei emphasized Trump’s personal involvement in the “anti-Iran sedition.”
• The statement was reported by Iranian media on January 17, 2026.

Critical Analysis:
The return of SMS and rollback of internet blackouts suggests the Iranian government is attempting to stabilize the internal situation after a period of unrest. Khamenei’s statement targeting Trump seems intended to deflect internal criticism by placing blame on a foreign adversary. This could be a calculated move to consolidate power and rally support amidst domestic challenges and quell further protest.

Key Takeaways:

• Khamenei’s condemnation of Trump is a significant escalation in rhetoric.
• The Iranian government is attempting to manage internal dissent by blaming external forces.
• The restoration of SMS service indicates a gradual return to normalcy, albeit under government control.
• The safety of foreign nationals in Iran during times of political unrest is a continuing concern.

Impact Analysis:

Khamenei’s words could inflame tensions between Iran and the United States further, complicating any potential future diplomatic efforts. This also can be seen as a signal to hardliners within Iran who may wish to take a more aggressive stance against perceived foreign interference. The long-term impact will depend on how both countries react to this verbal escalation and if any retaliatory actions are taken. The incident underscores the delicate balance of power in the region and the potential for miscalculation.

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