Iran intelligence minister says protests not 'guided' by foreigners
Iranian officials said they are still compiling the total arrested but they believe the situation in Iran has calmed down.
![IRAN-ELECTION/ Iran's Minister of Intelligence Mahmoud Alavi, a candidate for upcoming vote on the Assembly of Experts, speaks during a campaign gathering of candidates mainly close to the reformist camp, in Tehran February 23, 2016. REUTERS/Raheb Homavandi/TIMA ATTENTION EDITORS - THIS IMAGE WAS PROVIDED BY A THIRD PARTY. FOR EDITORIAL USE ONLY. - GF10000320085](/sites/default/files/styles/article_hero_medium/public/almpics/2018/01/RTX287BE.jpg/RTX287BE.jpg?h=a5ae579a&itok=J2nRdOTQ)
In a meeting with economic officials, President Hassan Rouhani addressed some of the economic issues facing Iran. Many people believe that Iran’s economy has been a major factor in the recent protests across the country. Rouhani attributed the “root of the problem” to there being a gap between the officials of the country and young people, saying, “We cannot impose our styles on the future generation.”
Rouhani also criticized some religious institutions for not paying taxes, a clear shot at his hard-line rivals.