Anger at the fuel-price hike spilled on to the streets of the central city of Isfahan Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has said he supports a fuel price rise that has sparked protests across the country. The Ayatollah blamed “hooligans” and counter-revolutionaries for violence that has been witnessed in several cities. At least one person is confirmed dead in clashes with police but reports suggest the number could be higher. Officials have warned of a tougher response if “illegal” actions continue. Protests erupted on Friday after the government unexpectedly announced it was rationing petrol and removing subsidies – sending prices up by 50%. The measures are the latest sign of pressure on the Iranian economy after the re-imposition of US sanctions. The government says the changes will free up money to help the poor. What’s the official reaction? In a statement on Sunday, Ayatollah Khamenei acknowledged that some […]