• Khamenei blames Trump for ongoing protests, acknowledging thousands killed.
• Trump calls for an end to Khamenei's rule, labeling him a "sick man."
• Iran's response includes threats of war if Khamenei is attacked.
• Both leaders accuse each other of violence and manipulation during the unrest.
• Reports indicate a return to normalcy in some areas of Iran post-protests.

Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly blamed US President Donald Trump for inciting protests that have escalated into violence, stating that "several thousand" people have been killed during the unrest that began in late December. He described the protesters as manipulated by foreign powers, asserting that the U.S. is responsible for instigating chaos in Iran. Khamenei called Trump a "criminal" for encouraging demonstrations and claimed that the protests were led by "seditious people" supported by the U.S., which he accused of aiming to dominate Iran's resources, according to channelnewsasia and latimes.

In a sharp escalation of rhetoric, Trump has responded by advocating for a change in leadership in Iran, declaring, "The man is a sick man who should run his country properly and stop killing people." Trump’s remarks highlight his frustration with Khamenei’s regime, which he claims has led to extreme violence and repression. He also mentioned that it is "time to look for new leadership in Iran," reflecting on the ongoing turmoil, according to indiatimes and indiatimes.

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian issued a warning that any attack on Khamenei would constitute a declaration of war against Iran. This threat comes amid Khamenei’s acknowledgment of the violence during the protests, where authorities claim upwards of 5,000 people may have died, including many security forces. Human rights organizations put the number at over 3,000, citing a harsh crackdown that remains difficult to verify due to restricted internet access in the region, according to indiatimes and indiatimes.

As the situation develops, Trump’s administration has suggested it would take action if killings of protesters continue, while Khamenei accused the U.S. of orchestrating a conspiracy against Iran. On the ground, reports indicate a possible return to normalcy, with streets in Tehran showing signs of life again as internet access gradually resumes after a blackout intended to curb communications during the protests, as noted by indiatimes and latimes.