Iranian National Security Council Secretary declares ongoing war, blames Israel

Ali Larijani, the Secretary of Iran"s National Security Council, declared on January 10, 2026, that the country is currently in a state of war, stating that there has been neither peace nor a ceasefire. He characterized the ongoing protests as being led by "rioters," whom he referred to as an urban quasi-terrorist group. Larijani further claimed that Israel is responsible for the current unrest in Iran.

This statement comes amid a backdrop of escalating tensions and protests within the country. For more information on the government"s stance towards protesters, see recent developments regarding threats made by the Tehran Prosecutor.

Larijani"s comments reflect a broader narrative within Iranian leadership, which has increasingly blamed foreign actors for domestic unrest. The situation continues to evolve, with protests reportedly entering their 14th consecutive day, as highlighted in previous reports.