Iran's Supreme Leader says Trump 'will be overthrown'

Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said US president Donald Trump would be 'overthrown' and defended the government as nationwide protests continued under a reported internet blackout.

Iran's supreme leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei delivered a televised address on Friday in which he said US president Donald Trump would be "overthrown" and described protesters as "vandals" and "saboteurs." His remarks came amid nearly two weeks of demonstrations that began after a sharp fall in the rial and growing anger over the rising cost of living. Large rallies were reported in multiple cities and some protesters targeted official buildings. Internet monitor Netblocks reported that authorities imposed extended restrictions on connectivity. Key points: - Khamenei publicly defended the Islamic republic and said the government would not back down in the face of the protests. - The demonstrations are the largest in nearly two weeks and were reported in Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz and other cities. - Netblocks reported an extended internet connectivity blackout as authorities limited online access. Summary: Khamenei's comments framed the unrest as the work of "saboteurs" while reaffirming state resolve. The protests have grown in scale and communications have been curtailed. Undetermined at this time.