Overview
- Iranian state television acknowledged the demonstrations for the first time, reporting arson and damage as it echoed claims that U.S. and Israeli agents stoked violence.
- Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused protesters of serving foreign interests and pledged a tough response, as crowds chanted against the government in Tehran and other cities.
- Exiled crown prince Reza Pahlavi’s evening call to mobilize spurred fresh turnout, and he urged further protests at 8 p.m. local time on Friday.
- A U.S.-based rights group cited by AP reports at least 42 people killed and more than 2,270 detained, while Iranian outlets mention unspecified casualties and lower figures.
- President Donald Trump warned the U.S. would strike Iran if peaceful protesters are killed, and Iran’s foreign minister said Tehran would retaliate if attacked.