TEHRAN - Iran on Tuesday criticized US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton's remarks on protests in Iran on Monday.

Related readings:  Iran marks 32nd anniversary of Islamic Revolution  Iran, Oman hold joint naval drill  India settles oil dispute with Iran-source  Salehi approved as Iran's new FM

Clinton on Monday hailed the "courage of Iranian people" whose demonstration to back changes in Egypt turned into protests against the Iranian government.

Clinton said the US clearly and directly supports the Iranian protesters' human rights and urged Iran to open up its political system.

Iranian Foreign Ministry Spokesman Ramin Mehmanparast said that regional developments have made the US officials confused these days.

Recent changes in the region has given a sharp blow to domineering powers and the Zionist regime, Mehmanparast said at his weekly press briefing.

The Iranian security forces on Monday fired tear gas to disperse protesters gathering in Tehran in support of demonstrations in Egypt and Tunisia, which was later turned into an anti-government protest.  

Iran's opposition leaders, Mir-Hussein Mousavi and Mehdi Karroubi, had asked for an official permission to demonstrate on Monday to back popular protests in Egypt and Tunisia, which was rejected by the government.

However, the opposition leaders insisted on their demand defying the government's rejection.