Iran’s President Masoud Pezeshkian accused U.S. President Donald Trump, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, and European leaders of exploiting Iran’s economic problems to incite unrest and divide society during recent protests. The nationwide protests, which lasted for two weeks and began in late December over economic hardships such as soaring inflation and rising living costs, resulted in a crackdown that Iran reports has killed over 3,000 people, including protesters and security personnel, though rights groups estimate the death toll could be in the tens of thousands. Pezeshkian stated that foreign powers provided resources and incited innocent people to tear the country apart, create conflict, and sow hatred. He emphasized that the protests were not just social but manipulated by external actors seeking to destabilize Iran. U.S. President Trump publicly supported the protesters, warning of military action if Iran continued its crackdown. The U.S. has also threatened Iran with sanctions and has deployed naval forces in the region, with Trump reviewing options for possible military strikes. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi declared that Iran is prepared for negotiations or warfare but refuses to negotiate over its missile program, which the U.S. demands be curbed. Iran’s leadership remains steadfast, asserting that regime change is unrealistic and that their system is deeply rooted. Regional countries including Turkey, the UAE, and Saudi Arabia are involved in diplomatic efforts to prevent escalation. Iran maintains that it will not compromise on its missile capabilities and is ready to engage for regional stability.