Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei laid down the gauntlet on Friday and told protesters they are either with the government or against it, warning of a crack down against opposition.
Khamenei, speaking at Friday prayers for the first time since last week’s elections, called for “calm” after the numerous demonstrations where multiple protesters have reportedly be killed.
The leader also warned that opposition leaders will be “held responsible,” according to Reuters. That makes the strictest language used yet toward the protesters.
“If there is any bloodshed, leaders of the protests will be held directly responsible,” Khamenei said.
“The result of the election comes from the ballot box, not from the street,” he also said.
A couple quick observations: It is worth noting that Khamenei’s remarks were delivered at Friday prayers. Not exactly a sign of a secular democracy, in my opinion.
And second, will Mousavi respond?