TEHRAN, Monday, January 12, 2026 (WNP): Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei on Monday described the latest nationwide rallies as a “historic day,” saying the large-scale public demonstrations reflected the Iranian nation’s resolve and thwarted foreign-backed attempts to sow unrest in the country.

In a message, Imam Khamenei said the mass gatherings, marked by strong public participation across multiple cities, had “completely shattered the foreign enemies’ plots” that, according to him, were intended to be carried out through internal collaborators.

“The great rallies, overflowing with firm determination, demonstrated the awareness and steadfastness of the Iranian nation,” the Supreme Leader said, praising participants for a unified response to external pressure and interference.

The remarks come amid heightened regional tensions and recent protests linked to economic challenges, which Iranian authorities have said were later exploited by hostile foreign actors. The situation has largely stabilized following government measures and public support.

State media reported that the rallies were organized to reaffirm national unity and support for the Islamic Republic’s sovereignty, with participants carrying national flags and chanting slogans in favor of independence and resistance to foreign intervention.

Iranian leaders have repeatedly accused foreign governments and media outlets of attempting to influence domestic developments through political pressure, sanctions, and information campaigns, allegations that Western governments deny.

The Supreme Leader’s message framed the demonstrations as a decisive public response, underscoring what he characterized as the nation’s resilience in the face of external challenges and its continued commitment to safeguarding Iran’s independence and stability.