Escalating Protests in Iran: Over 200 Deaths Reported Amidst Brutal Crackdown
Intensifying Unrest in Iran
Protests against the Islamic regime in Iran have escalated significantly, evolving from initial demonstrations against economic hardship, inflation, and currency devaluation that began in late December 2025 into a widespread anti-government movement. Reports indicate a surge in violent crackdowns by security forces across various cities, leading to a rapid increase in fatalities.
Casualties and Human Rights Violations
A doctor from Tehran, speaking anonymously to a prominent magazine, revealed that over 217 protesters have died in just six hospitals in the capital, with most fatalities resulting from live ammunition. Many of the deceased are young individuals, with several being shot outside police stations. Authorities have reportedly removed bodies from hospitals.
Human Rights Organizations' Reports
Human rights organizations, including Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch, have confirmed at least 28 to 36 deaths, including children, but the actual number is likely much higher. Thousands have sustained injuries, and over 2,000 arrests have been made. Security forces have conducted raids on hospitals, detaining the injured and obstructing medical care. An internet blackout has persisted for over 24 hours.
Protesters' Demands and Calls for Action
Demonstrators are chanting slogans such as 'Death to the Dictator' and 'This year is the year of sacrifice; Sayyid Ali (Khamenei) will fall.' Shops are closed, streets are blocked, and incidents of arson have been reported in Tehran's Grand Bazaar, Isfahan, Shiraz, Mashhad, and other cities. Reza Pahlavi, son of the former Shah, has urged protesters to take to the streets and seek assistance from Trump.
Khamenei's Response and International Reactions
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has labeled the protesters as 'foreign agents' and accused them of ruining roads for Trump. He compared Trump to historical tyrants, asserting that his arrogance will lead to downfall. Trump has warned that the U.S. will intervene if violence is inflicted upon peaceful protesters.
Global Condemnation and Ongoing Crisis
The international community, including the U.S. and the European Union, has condemned the repression. As the situation deteriorates, protests have entered their 13th day. The ongoing internet and communication shutdown in Iran complicates the flow of accurate information, but reports of deaths and arrests continue. The world is watching closely to see if this movement will mirror the 1979 revolution.