Ayatollah Khamenei Praises Iranian Mass Rallies as Historic Warning to Washington
Leader of the Islamic Revolution says nationwide demonstrations exposed foreign plots, rejected armed chaos, and reaffirmed Iran’s resolve against US-backed interference
Iran, PUREWILAYAH.COM - The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Khamenei, has hailed the massive nationwide rallies across Iran as a “great act” and a “historic day,” declaring that the Iranian people thwarted foreign plots and delivered a clear warning to Washington and its regional allies.
In a message addressed to the Iranian nation following the large-scale demonstrations on Monday, Ayatollah Khamenei said the gatherings revealed the Iranian people’s identity, determination, and vigilance in the face of hostile schemes aimed at destabilizing the country through internal mercenaries.
‘A Great Act and a Historic Day’
Addressing the Iranian people directly, Ayatollah Khamenei praised what he described as an extraordinary display of national resolve.
“You accomplished a great act today and recorded a historic day,” he said.
“These vast crowds, filled with steadfast determination, nullified the plans of foreign enemies that were meant to be implemented through mercenaries from within.”
The Leader stressed that the rallies demonstrated the Iranian nation’s strength and awareness, underscoring that the people remain present on the scene under all circumstances and fully conscious of who their enemies are.
Warning to US Politicians
Ayatollah Khamenei stated that the demonstrations should serve as a direct warning to US politicians, urging them to put an end to deception and abandon reliance on what he described as “traitorous mercenaries.”
He emphasized that Iran’s people are not only resilient but also politically alert, capable of recognizing and confronting foreign-backed attempts to sow chaos and division.
“The Iranian nation is strong and capable, aware and knowledgeable of its enemy, and present in the arena at all times,” he said.
Nationwide Rallies Reject Armed Riots
Ayatollah Khamenei’s message followed million-man demonstrations that spread across Iran on Monday morning under the banner of “National Solidarity and Honoring Peace and Friendship.” The rallies were held to condemn armed riots and reaffirm popular support for the Islamic Republic and national stability.
Crowds filled the streets from Tehran to southeastern provinces, denouncing violence and sabotage while voicing rejection of foreign interference in Iran’s internal affairs.
Condemnation of Violence and Sabotage
In recent days, Iran has witnessed acts of violence, rioting, and sabotage that authorities say infiltrated otherwise peaceful protests over economic conditions in several regions. These incidents resulted in deaths, destruction of public and private property, and acts of arson.
Iranian officials have repeatedly emphasized the distinction between peaceful protest and armed chaos, stressing that while lawful demonstrations are a right, violence and foreign-directed sabotage will not be tolerated.
Anti-US and Anti-Israeli Slogans
Demonstrators across several provinces waved the flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran and chanted slogans against the United States and “Israel,” expressing firm opposition to external meddling in the country’s affairs.
Iranian state television broadcast live footage of protests in multiple cities, including Zahedan, Birjand, and Kerman in southeastern Iran, showing massive crowds and coordinated public participation.
Several Iranian cities also witnessed funeral processions for individuals killed during the armed riots, held simultaneously with the nationwide rallies. The processions underscored public anger over violence and reinforced demands for security and stability.
‘Yes to Protest, No to Armed Chaos’
As millions took to the streets, the message from Tehran was unequivocal: peaceful protest is legitimate, but armed unrest and foreign interference are unacceptable.
On Sunday, the Iranian government and the Islamic Revolution Guard Corps called on the public to participate widely in national solidarity rallies to support stability and reject rioting and foreign meddling. They reiterated support for peaceful protest while holding the United States and “Israel” responsible for acts of sabotage and the deaths of protesters.
Ayatollah Khamenei concluded his message by invoking divine mercy for the Iranian people, praising their unity and steadfastness in confronting external pressure and internal subversion.
Here is the full statement of the Leader:
In the Name of God, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate
O great and honorable Iranian people!
Today, you accomplished a great deed and inscribed a historic day. These vast crowds, filled with firm determination, nullified the plans of foreign enemies that were meant to be carried out by mercenaries inside the country.
The great Iranian nation displayed itself—its resolve and its identity—before the enemies. This was a warning to American politicians to put an end to their deception and not to place their hopes in traitorous mercenaries.
The Iranian people are strong and capable, aware and knowledgeable of their enemy, and present in the arena under all circumstances.
May God envelop you all in His mercy.
Sayyed Ali Khamenei
12 January 2026 (PW)