Khamenei Signals Iran Opposition to Uprisings in Lebanon, Iraq
Thu 31 October 2019:
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei signaled his opposition to uprisings roiling Lebanon and Iraq, where the Islamic Republic’s allies are resisting calls to oust governments through street protests.
“The people have justifiable demands, but they should know their demands can only be fulfilled within the legal structure and framework of their country,” Khamenei said on Twitter.
Khamenei spoke a day after Lebanese Prime Minister Saad Hariri stepped down after failing to agree with Hezbollah and its allies on a cabinet reshuffle. His resignation came hours after supporters of the Iranian-backed group attacked demonstrators in central Beirut and destroyed their tents.
Iran’s rivals will likely use his comments as proof it has the most to lose from uprooting regimes dominated by Islamic Republic proxy groups. Protesters in both countries accuse the ruling elite of lining their pockets at the expense of populations reeling under stagnant economic growth and rising unemployment.
In Iraq, mass anti-government protests this month have left dozens dead, adding pressure on Prime Minister Adil Abd Al-Mahdi to quit.
Khamenei blamed the protests on the U.S., Israel and some Western countries, echoing the remarks of Iran’s supporters in Lebanon and Iraq.
Demonstrations against corruption, rising inequality and prices have swept several countries, toppling leaders in Algeria and Sudan.
But unrest in Lebanon and Iraq pose a particular challenge to Iran, which relies on Hezbollah as well as Iraqi militias for influence as it fights a proxy.
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