Trump Warns Iran's Khamenei: 'Getting Very Bad' Amid Protests, US Ready to Act

US President Donald Trump has suggested that Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei may be considering fleeing the country as protests escalate. In an interview with Fox News, Trump hinted that Khamenei is looking to escape, stating 'it's getting very bad.' The comments come as thousands of Iranians take to the streets, protesting the country's economic crisis, which has led to a 42.5% inflation rate and a worsening cost-of-living crisis. At least 42 people have been killed since the protests began on December 28. In response to the violence, Trump warned that the US would 'hit the Iranian authorities very hard' if protesters are harmed. This stance is in line with comments made earlier by Trump aide and US Senator Lindsey Graham, who stated that the President would 'kill' Khamenei if the protests continue to be violently suppressed. The protests, which have spread to multiple cities including the capital Tehran, have been met with a crackdown by the Iranian government, which has restricted internet and phone access. The Iranian state TV, however, has attributed the demonstrations to 'terrorist agents' of the US and Israel. As the situation in Iran continues to deteriorate, the US is maintaining its stance in support of the protesters. Trump's comments suggest that the US is prepared to take action if the Iranian authorities continue to suppress the protests violently. Reza Pahlavi, an exiled prince who has been a vocal critic of the Iranian regime, has called for international support for the protesters, citing the need for 'all technical, financial, and diplomatic resources available to restore communication to the Iranian people.' The US and other countries have been criticized for their muted response to the crisis, with many calling for greater action to support the protesters. Follow live updates on the situation in Iran here.