Ominous words from Iran’s “Supreme Leader,” threatening a major crackdown in the works: Iran’s Khamenei warns protest leaders after vote.

TEHRAN (Reuters) - Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei issued a strong warning on Friday to leaders of mass street protests after a disputed presidential election that they would be responsible for any bloodshed.

His words appeared to hint at a future crackdown by authorities on protests after the election a week ago, which Khamenei said was fairly won by Mahmoud Ahmadinejad and not rigged, as defeated candidate Mirhossein Mousavi alleges.

Khamenei called for an end to the protests in his first address to the nation since the election results triggered the most widespread street demonstrations in the Islamic Republic’s 30-year history.

“If there is any bloodshed, leaders of the protests will be held directly responsible,” the white-bearded cleric told huge crowds thronging Tehran University and surrounding streets for Friday prayers.