Khamenei Warns "Rioters" Amid Iran's Widespread Economic Protests

• Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei acknowledged economic concerns but issued a stern warning against "rioters" amid ongoing protests.
• The demonstrations, sparked by high prices and economic stagnation, began last Sunday and have spread to over two dozen cities across Iran.
• Khamenei stated that authorities must have dialogue with protesters but "rioters must be put in their place," indicating no tolerance for violence.
• At least eight people, including members of Iran’s security forces like Ali Azizi of the Basij paramilitary, have been killed since the protests began.
• While authorities are open to discussing economic issues, they have repeatedly warned against attempts to destabilize the country, comparing current unrest to smaller past protests.

Why It Matters: Khamenei warns "rioters" as economic protests spread across Iran, acknowledging grievances but vowing no violence.