- Ayatollah Khamenei stated that approximately a few thousand people have died during the recent anti-government protests in Iran.
- Khamenei blamed the United States and President Trump for the casualties and damage caused by the protests.
- The protests were sparked by rising prices and economic hardship for Iranian citizens, a situation Khamenei acknowledged.

A: Hey, did you hear anything about what's going on in Iran?

B: No, what's happening? It feels like so much is always going on!

A: Apparently, the top leader, Ayatollah Khamenei, finally talked about the protests.

B: Really? What did he say?

A: He said a few thousand people died. It’s a really big number, right? The *New York Times* says around 3,000.

B: Wow. That’s terrible. What started all this?

A: It all began in Tehran. People were protesting because prices are really high. Western countries have these economic punishments against Iran, you know, sanctions?

A: That’s making things hard for everyone.

B: So, what else did he say?

A: He blamed the US! Called President Trump a “criminal.”

B: Seriously? He’s really angry!

A: Yeah, he said Trump caused damage and bad talk. He also admitted things are tough for Iranian citizens.

B: So, he understands people are struggling?

A: He did. He wants the government to do more about the economy. But it's hard, because those sanctions aren't going away soon.

B: That’s a really difficult situation. Hopefully, things will get better for them.