Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has acknowledged the legitimacy of economic grievances fueling widespread protests across the country, while warning that authorities will not tolerate violence or unrest. The demonstrations, which began with shopkeepers protesting high prices and economic stagnation, have spread to at least 30 cities and evolved to include political demands. Clashes between protesters and security forces have resulted in at least 12 deaths, including members of the security forces and demonstrators. While officials have expressed willingness to address economic concerns, they have drawn a firm line against what they describe as rioting and foreign interference. International reactions have heightened tensions, with the United States warning of possible intervention and Iranian leaders rejecting outside involvement.