Iran’s supreme leader says ‘enemies’ behind recent protests

Tehran, Jun 4 (EFE).- Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei on Saturday blamed “enemies” of the Islamic Republic for recent protests that have erupted due to the rise of prices for basic commodities in the country and anger over a building collapse.

“The enemy is using popular protests to strike the nation,” Khamenei said in a TV address marking the 33rd anniversary of the death of his predecessor and founder of the Islamic Republic of Iran Ayatollah Ruhollah Khomeini.

“But the calculations of our enemies are wrong,” the religious leader added during his speech at Khomeini’s tomb in Tehran.

Iran has witnessed street protests in recent weeks due to the rising prices of products like bread following a decision by president Ebrahim Raisi to scrap subsidies.

At least two people have been killed in the protests, which have occurred in a number of cities across the nation, local media report.

A building collapse in the southern city of Abadan, in which 34 people were killed, added fuel to the protests last week. EFE

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