Nationwide protests against Iran’s theocratic government have now been ongoing for two weeks, with activists reporting a death toll of at least 116 individuals involved in the violence surrounding the demonstrations.
Due to internet shutdowns and severed phone lines in Iran, monitoring the protests from overseas has become increasingly challenging. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency disclosed that the death toll has risen to 116 people, with over 2,600 individuals detained. Iranian state TV has been focusing on security forces’ casualties, emphasizing control over the nation, and labeling the deceased protesters as “terrorists.”
Despite warnings from the U.S., Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has hinted at an impending crackdown. Iranian authorities have intensified their threats, with Iran’s attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, declaring that participation in protests would be considered a capital offense of being an “enemy of God.”
U.S. President Donald Trump expressed solidarity with the protesters, stating on social media that “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” Meanwhile, the U.S. State Department cautioned against underestimating Trump’s commitments, emphasizing his resolve.
In response to international reactions, Iran’s parliament speaker warned that the U.S. military and Israel would be “legitimate targets” if the U.S. were to strike Iran. Lawmakers in the Iranian parliament chanted “Death to America!” during the warning.
Foreign affairs ministers from Canada, Australia, and the European Union joined forces to commend the courage of the Iranian people in defending their rights to peaceful protest, while condemning the violence and arbitrary arrests carried out by the Iranian regime.
Conflicting reports emerged on Saturday, with Iranian state TV portraying a semblance of normalcy in cities at night, while online videos contradicted these claims, showing demonstrations in Tehran and other locations. The protests initially sparked by economic grievances have evolved into broader dissent against the ruling regime.
Amid concerns of a potential violent crackdown by Iranian security forces, airlines have canceled flights to Iran, and exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi called for continued protests. The demonstrations, stemming from economic hardships exacerbated by international sanctions, have grown to challenge Iran’s prevailing theocratic system.
As the situation unfolds, the internet shutdown in Iran has raised fears of a repressive response by authorities. Concerns mount over a potential repeat of the violent crackdown witnessed during previous protests in 2019, highlighting the risks faced by those opposing the authoritarian regime.
