The photo shows recent foreign-backed riots in Iran.

Iran`s Ministry of Intelligence says over 300 key operatives and ringleaders involved in the recent foreign-backed riots in the country have been arrested.

According to the ministry, the arrests were made following reports from citizens who identified and reported on those responsible for the acts of rioting and vandalism on January 8.

As a result of the public`s assistance, security forces have successfully tracked down and detained more than 300 main people linked to the criminal acts, it said.

The ministry added that some of the information shared by the public has also led to the capture of armed terrorist groups that aimed to harm people or attack security personnel during the recent disturbances.

The collaboration from the public in reporting these threats has boosted the morale of the operational and field units, according to the statement.

Even though many security forces were wounded in the violence, they are committed to continuing their work and remain on duty.

The ministry also urged citizens to support the security efforts by coming forward with any information about armed terrorists and recent rioters.

What began late last month as peaceful protests over economic hardship across Iran turned violent after public statements by US and Israeli regime figures encouraged vandalism and disorder.

During the unrest, foreign-backed mercenaries rampaged through cities, killing security forces and civilians and damaging public property.

The US president has repeatedly threatened military action against Iran under the guise of supporting armed rioters.