Iran Faces Escalating Protests Amid Government Crackdown
Protests Erupt in Iran
In the last two weeks, anti-government protests in Iran have resulted in at least 116 fatalities, as authorities warn of a heightened crackdown on dissent.
Initially sparked by frustrations over soaring inflation, the protests, which began on December 28, have expanded to include calls for the end of clerical governance across more than 100 cities.
Iranian officials have accused the United States and Israel of instigating the unrest. In response, the government has severed internet and telephone services, effectively isolating the nation.
According to the Human Rights Activists in Iran, the confirmed death toll reached 116 as of Saturday. They highlighted that the internet blackouts and communication disruptions have severely hampered the flow of information and the ability to verify events independently.
Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad warned on Saturday that participants in the protests would be labeled as 'enemies of God,' a designation that could lead to the death penalty. He further stated that even those aiding the demonstrators would face similar charges.
Azad emphasized the need for prosecutors to act swiftly in preparing indictments against those deemed responsible for creating insecurity and betraying the nation.
Despite the government's warnings, social media has shown videos of ongoing protests in Tehran and other cities, including Rasht, Tabriz, Shiraz, and Kerman, although these reports remain unverified.
A nationwide internet blackout was reported in Iran, internet monitoring group NetBlocks said, as protests over economic hardships continued around the country https://t.co/Sti1POOmTp pic.twitter.com/qmefuEUmra
— Reuters (@Reuters) January 9, 2026
A verified video from Friday depicted a protest in Tehran’s Saadatabad district, where a man was heard declaring that the crowd had taken control of the area.
He shouted slogans such as 'Death to the dictator' and 'Death to Khamenei,' referring to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
U.S. President Donald Trump voiced his support for the demonstrators, stating on social media: 'Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!'
— Pete Hegseth (@PeteHegseth) January 10, 2026
The Iranian Revolutionary Guards have claimed that 'terrorists' targeted military and law enforcement facilities in recent nights, resulting in casualties among both citizens and security personnel, along with significant property damage.
The elite military unit stated that protecting the achievements of the Islamic revolution and maintaining security is a 'red line.'