Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has stated that "rioters must be put in their place," signaling a tougher stance against ongoing protests fueled by economic hardship. The demonstrations have resulted in at least 10-15 deaths. Khamenei distinguished between protesters with economic grievances and "rioters," while also countering US President Donald Trump's warning against violently suppressing peaceful demonstrators. Trump's comments prompted an angry response from Iranian officials, who threatened to target American troops.