Ali Khamenei on protests: thousands died, unrest stopped

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei held a meeting with a group of Iranian citizens in Tehran today.

He noted that peaceful demonstrations in the country were turned into riots by provocateurs, adding that those involved committed various crimes.

As as result, thousands of people have been killed in the recent unrest in Iran, Khamenei noted, adding that more than 250 mosques were destroyed, while over 250 educational institutions and other public property, as well as government buildings, were damaged.

The Supreme Leader said that what he described as malicious plans in the country had been brought to an end.

He warned that while Iran would avoid escalation beyond its borders, those it holds responsible would face consequences.

"We do not intend to lead the country to war, but we will not spare domestic criminals… worse than domestic criminals, international criminals, we will not spare them either," Khamenei said.

Iran's Supreme Leader acknowledged that “the economic situation is not good, and people’s livelihoods are truly facing difficulties”. He stressed that Iran's government officials must work twice as hard as usual and act with greater seriousness and determination.