Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has acknowledged the economic concerns driving protests across the country, while warning that authorities will act firmly against unrest and violence.

Demonstrations began earlier in the week over rising prices and economic stagnation but have since expanded to include political demands. Protests have spread to more than 25 cities, mainly in western and southwestern Iran, with gatherings reported in mid-sized urban areas.

Khamenei said senior officials are working to address economic difficulties worsened by international sanctions and recognized that protests by workers and shopkeepers over living conditions are legitimate. At the same time, he stressed that while dialogue with peaceful protesters is necessary, authorities will not tolerate violent actions.

Clashes between demonstrators and security forces have resulted in at least eight deaths, including members of the security services, according to official figures. Reports from Iranian media said a member of the Basij paramilitary force was killed during unrest in western Iran, while another death was reported in the city of Qom following an explosion.

State media coverage of the protests has been limited, and while videos of demonstrations have circulated widely on social media, many remain difficult to independently verify.

Following protests, US President Donald Trump also warned Iran that US will intervene if peaceful protesters are harmed. Iran’s foreign minister called the US warning reckless, adding that Iran will not allow any foreign intervention in civil matters.