Global News Podcast Iran's Supreme Leader describes demonstrators as vandals
9 snips
Jan 9, 2026 
Kazran Arji, a BBC Persian commentator, shares on-the-ground insights into the Iranian protests and the Supreme Leader's harsh criticism of demonstrators. Weira Davis, reporting from Ukraine, highlights the devastating impact of Russian missile strikes on civilian infrastructure and the human cost of the ongoing conflict. Meanwhile, Sarah Rainsford covers Switzerland's mourning for New Year's Eve fire victims, while Ione Wells explores regional tensions through her interview with Colombian President Gustavo Petro, discussing US actions in South America.
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Regime Frames Protests To Justify Crackdown
- Ayatollah Ali Khamenei publicly framed protesters as "vandals" and foreign-backed saboteurs to justify a hard crackdown.
- Kazran Arji warns this rhetoric is preparing the ground for a nationwide, potentially bloody security response.
Media Messaging And External Rhetoric Shape Responses
- Kazran Arji says state TV portrays protesters as terrorists and foreign mercenaries to build acceptance for force.
- He notes Trump's supportive rhetoric may embolden some demonstrators despite remaining largely rhetorical.
Wider Geographic Spread Raises Stakes
- The scale of protests is larger than 2022's "Women, Life, Freedom" unrest, with demonstrations in around 340 locations.
- Kazran Arji says sheer numbers make any nationwide crackdown more complex and likely bloodier.