In a recent sermon, high-ranking Iranian cleric Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami demanded the execution of protesters, while issuing direct threats against former U.S. President Donald Trump and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. Khatami’s comments came amid ongoing protests across Iran, which he attributed to foreign interference aimed at destabilizing the nation.
During his sermon on December 28, 2023, broadcast by Iranian state media, Khatami, a close ally of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, characterized the demonstrators as “butlers” for Netanyahu and “soldiers” for Trump. He stated that these individuals were part of a larger scheme orchestrated by the U.S. and Israel to disintegrate Iran. Khatami’s rhetoric reflects the hardline stance of the Iranian regime, which has faced significant criticism and unrest over economic issues.
Damaging Protests and Government Crackdown
Khatami’s sermon followed reports of extensive damage caused by the protests, which he claimed affected approximately 350 mosques, 126 prayer halls, and numerous emergency service vehicles. He asserted that the demonstrations had led to the destruction of 400 hospitals and other critical infrastructures, emphasizing the chaos that has ensued.
The protests began in response to a severe economic crisis, prompting many Iranians to take to the streets. They have since evolved into a broader challenge to the theocratic regime. Khatami’s call for executions is seen as a signal of the regime’s determination to suppress dissent. The Iranian government has responded with a brutal crackdown, resulting in thousands of casualties among demonstrators.
According to reports, the government’s response has included unverified claims of security forces killing individuals during the protests, as well as numerous incidents of violence against protesters. Khatami’s threats were met with chants from worshippers, who reportedly called for the death of “armed hypocrites,” reflecting the growing tensions within the country.
International Impact and Reactions
The international community is closely monitoring the situation in Iran, particularly in light of Khatami’s threats against prominent world leaders. While the Iranian cleric’s comments suggest a hardening of the regime’s stance, Trump has expressed a somewhat conciliatory tone, thanking Iran for not executing detained protesters. This dynamic highlights a complex interplay between internal dissent and external diplomatic relations.
As protests continue to shake the foundations of the Iranian government, Khatami’s inflammatory rhetoric underscores the regime’s position on dissent and its willingness to resort to extreme measures to maintain control. The situation remains fluid, and the potential for further unrest looms large in the wake of these developments.
With the Iranian government facing mounting pressure from both its citizens and the international community, the coming weeks will be crucial in determining the future trajectory of the protests and the regime’s response.
