ISLAMABAD, Monday, January 12, 2026 (WNP): Iran’s Cultural Counsellor, Majid Meshki, has said that recent unrest in the Islamic Republic stemmed from economic grievances that were later exploited by hostile foreign actors, asserting that the situation has now largely stabilized following decisive government action and public support.

In a detailed statement addressing recent demonstrations in Iran, Meshki said fluctuations in the foreign exchange market about two weeks ago affected the purchasing power of traders and merchants, prompting peaceful protests in Tehran’s marketplaces. The demonstrations led to temporary market closures in some commercial districts, he added.

According to the statement, President Dr. Masoud Pezeshkian and his economic team responded swiftly by engaging with representatives of trade unions and market associations. These consultations resulted in agreements aimed at stabilizing the exchange rate and reopening markets, helping to address the immediate concerns of traders.

Meshki alleged, however, that what began as peaceful economic protests were subsequently exploited by “external enemies” of the Islamic Republic, whom he accused of launching a coordinated, multi-layered campaign to destabilize Iran.

He claimed that hostile powers, including the United States and Israel, sought to capitalize on internal challenges following a recent, unsuccessful confrontation with Iran.

He further alleged that foreign-backed elements attempted to intensify economic pressure through renewed sanctions, threats of military escalation, and efforts to disrupt the inflow of foreign currency, with the aim of provoking internal unrest and steering protests toward violence.

The statement claimed that two groups emerged during the unrest: one comprising young people allegedly influenced by social media and misinformation, and another consisting of armed militants purportedly trained and financed by hostile forces to attack security personnel and public infrastructure.

Meshki said that following a public address by Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, peaceful protesters distanced themselves from violent elements. He noted that while the leadership acknowledged the right of citizens and trade groups to protest economic hardship, it rejected any compromise with what it described as rioters and armed groups.

He added that law enforcement agencies acted to protect peaceful demonstrators while preventing violent actors from infiltrating protests. According to the statement, the government exercised restraint, worked to raise public awareness, and ultimately succeeded in restoring calm in most cities over the past several days.

The statement acknowledged that several people lost their lives during the unrest, describing the losses as tragic. In response, the Iranian government has announced three days of national mourning.

Meshki accused foreign governments and some European officials of supporting violent elements, while praising the “clear and principled stance” of Pakistan in supporting Iran’s government and opposing terrorism and media incitement.

“The people and government of Pakistan firmly stood with the Iranian nation, its leadership and system,” the statement said, adding that this support would be remembered as a positive chapter in bilateral relations between the two neighboring countries.

The statement concluded by expressing confidence that the unrest would not undermine the Islamic Republic and that the episode had further clarified, in Iran’s view, the distinction between its allies and adversaries on the international stage.