Iran President Blames 'Rioters' as Protest Death Toll Hits 203

• Mass protests began in Iran on December 28 over inflation, currency depreciation, and high living costs.
• The movement escalated into a full-scale rebellion, spreading across many cities.
• President Masoud Pezeshkian addressed the nation, stating the government is ready to listen but condemns 'rioters' for societal destruction.
• Pezeshkian urged citizens to stop rioters and trust the government's commitment to justice.
• He accused the United States and Israel of instigating the unrest and warned against foreign interference and internal chaos.

Why It Matters: Iran's President blames 'rioters' and foreign powers for widespread protests as death toll rises.