Iran's top leader says understands protests over drought

Iran’s Supreme Leader leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei says he understands protesters’ anger over a drought in the country’s southwest, as a fourth death related to ongoing demonstrations there was reported

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates -- Iran’s Supreme Leader leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei on Friday said he understands protesters' anger over a drought in the country's southwest, as a fourth death related to ongoing demonstrations there was reported. The remark, reported by state television, was the first direct comment on the protests by Khamenei since they began in the Khuzestan region a week ago. Semiofficial news agency Fars reported a man was killed by shotgun fire in street violence in the nearby city of Aligoudarz, which police blamed on “counterrevolutionary elements." “People showed their discontent, but we cannot have any complaint since the issue of water in the hot climate of Khuzestan is not a minor issue,” Khamenei was quoted as saying. He accused Iran's enemies of trying to exploit the situation. He praised the people of the region for their loyalty and efforts during the devastating war against Iraq in the 1980’s, adding that “the people should not face problems“ anymore.