Thousands killed in unrest: Khamenei blames US; Trump demands new leadership — what’s happening in Iran

Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has acknowledged thousands of deaths during recent nationwide protests, a rare admission amid a harsh crackdown. Khamenei blamed the United States and foreign actors for orchestrating the unrest, which began over economic issues but evolved into anti-regime demonstrations. US President Donald Trump condemned the violence and called for new leadership in Iran.