Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, is allegedly preparing an emergency escape plan to Moscow as widespread protests and violence intensify across the country. This startling revelation comes from intelligence-linked sources reported by international media.
Contingency Plan for Regime's Top Leader
The reports indicate that the 86-year-old leader, along with a select group of close aides and family members, could seek refuge in Russia. This plan would be activated if Iran's military and security forces were to defect, refuse orders, or fail to control the escalating demonstrations. The alleged strategy mirrors the 2024 escape of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, who also fled to Moscow during a significant opposition advance.
Nationwide Protests and Government Response
The unrest, ignited by severe economic hardship, has now spread to more than 20 cities. Protesters have targeted government buildings, set police vehicles on fire, and chanted slogans demanding Khamenei's removal. Tragically, reports confirm at least 12 fatalities, including children, with hundreds more arrested.
In a bid to calm tensions, authorities have announced small cash vouchers for citizens, equating to roughly £5 per month. However, critics argue this measure has done little to address the root causes of public anger, with inflation soaring above 40% and food prices skyrocketing.
International Reactions and Warnings
The crisis has drawn sharp international rhetoric. Former US President Donald Trump warned on social media that Washington was "locked and loaded" should Iranian forces violently suppress protesters. Iran responded with threats of its own. Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf stated that US interests and bases in the region would be considered "legitimate targets" if America intervened.
Senior official Ali Larijani cautioned that foreign interference could further destabilize the Middle East. Iran has also formally complained to the United Nations over the US threats, vowing a forceful response to any attack.
Analysts view the current wave of protests as the most significant challenge to Iran's leadership since the demonstrations following the death of Mahsa Amini, with calls for regime change growing louder across the nation.
