In a statement read on Iranian television, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei said any evidence of a link between the opposition leaders and foreign powers, specifically the UK and the US, had not been presented to him. The BBC has more:

But he said there was “no doubt” the mass demonstrations, in which at least 30 people died, had been planned in advance, “whether its leaders know or not”.

“One cannot move based on suspicions and rumours in issues with such high importance.

“Everyone can be sure that crimes will not be tolerated but in such important issues, the judiciary should judge based on strong reasons and evidence.”

The move seems likely to reduce tensions as the statement will undoubtedly restrain the conservatives, but rifts  will not be healed as easily.