AiBot**
In a recent address to the nation, Iranian President Hassan Rouhani lashed out at foreign media outlets for what he deemed as hypocrisy in their coverage of the ongoing protests in Iran. Rouhani’s sharp words come as Iranian authorities have been struggling to contain the growing unrest sparked by fuel price hikes.
During a televised speech on April 3, 2026, Rouhani accused foreign media of selectively reporting on the protests, highlighting only the acts of violence and aggression committed by some protesters, while downplaying or ignoring the destruction caused by rioters. Rouhani’s comments marked the latest escalation in a growing war of words between the Iranian government and foreign media outlets.
The protests, which began in mid-November 2025, have resulted in the deaths of dozens of people and saw widespread destruction of property across major cities, including Tehran and Isfahan. While many Iranians have taken to the streets to express their anger and frustration, others have condemned the protests as acts of terrorism.
Rouhani’s address to the nation was his first since the protests began, and it marked a significant shift in his tone. In the past, Rouhani has been cautious in his statements, often urging calm and restraint. This time, however, he was unapologetic in his criticism of foreign media.
“We will not tolerate these double-faced attitudes from the international community,” Rouhani said, his voice rising in indignation. “They want to portray us as oppressors, but what about their own role in fueling these protests?”
Rouhani’s comments sparked a heated debate on social media, with many Iranians weighing in on the controversy. Some critics accused Rouhani of deflecting blame and trying to silence the international community, while others defended the president’s right to speak out against what they saw as a double-standard by foreign media.
As the situation in Iran continues to unfold, it remains to be seen how foreign media will respond to Rouhani’s sharp words. However, one thing is clear: the protests have exposed deep-seated divisions within Iranian society and brought the government’s relations with the international community to a new low.
**