Tehran will not surrender to the enemy, Ayatollah Khomeini
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khomenei has firmly rejected any possibility of surrender, declaring that “Tehran will not surrender to the enemy” amid rising tensions and ongoing protests in the country. His remarks were widely seen as a response to statements made by U.S. President Donald Trump, who had warned that the United States could come to the aid of protesters in Iran.
Addressing the unrest, Ayatollah Khomeini drew a clear distinction between what he described as legitimate demonstrators and those he labeled as troublemakers. “We are talking to the demonstrators,” he said, suggesting that the Iranian leadership is open to dialogue with citizens who are expressing grievances peacefully. However, he took a much harsher tone toward others involved in the protests, adding, “There is no point in talking to rioters; they must be put in their place.”
The comments underline the Iranian government’s uncompromising stance in the face of both internal dissent and external pressure. Khomeini’s speech emphasized national sovereignty and resistance, a recurring theme in his leadership, particularly during periods of strained relations with the United States.
President Trump’s earlier remarks, interpreted by Tehran as interference in Iran’s internal affairs, have further escalated tensions between the two countries. Iranian officials have repeatedly accused Washington of attempting to destabilize the country by encouraging protests and applying political and economic pressure.
As demonstrations continue, the situation highlights the deepening divide between Iran and the United States, while also revealing the Iranian leadership’s approach to managing domestic unrest—combining limited dialogue with firm warnings of crackdown against what it views as disorder and violence.
