In recent days, intensifying protests have pushed Iran to a critical threshold both domestically and internationally. Harsh security force responses, communication blackouts, and escalating rhetoric on both sides have further raised tensions.
Economic Protests Turn Into Anti-Regime Demonstrations
In the Islamic Republic of Iran, protests began on December 28, 2025, when merchants at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar took to the streets to protest the depreciation of the local currency. The demonstrations quickly moved beyond economic demands and spread to all 31 provinces, accompanied by slogans targeting the theocratic regime.
In many cities—most notably Tehran, Tabriz, Shiraz, Karaj, Abadan, and Sistan-Baluchestan—shops were closed, strikes expanded, and large nighttime street demonstrations were held. On Wednesday evening, electricity was cut in some areas, followed by widespread disruptions to internet access nationwide.
Deaths and Heavy-Handed Crackdown
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 42 people have been killed so far in the protests. Of those, 34 were protesters and 8 were security personnel. A total of 2,277 people have been detained.
Security forces were reported to have used tear gas, plastic bullets, and pellet ammunition, and in some locations live fire. Iran’s Tasnim News Agency said two Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps soldiers were killed in Kermanshah, while a Basij member was seriously wounded in Qazvin. In several cities, governorate buildings and police vehicles were set on fire.
Internet Shutdowns and Information Blackout
Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported severe connectivity disruptions across Iran. Users in multiple regions said internet access was completely cut or significantly slowed. Iranian authorities issued no official explanation, though access was said to have been shut down in approximately 70 percent of the country.
Trump Issues Sharp Threat, Tehran Responds
U.S. President Donald Trump warned that Iran could face military intervention if violence against protesters intensified. Trump said,
If they start killing people, which they tend to do during their riots, they have lots of riots. If they do it, we're going to hit them very hard. They've been told very strongly, even more strongly than I'm speaking to you right now, that if they do that, they're going to have to pay hell.
Tehran quickly responded. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Iran was not seeking war but was prepared for all scenarios. Araghchi stated,
We do not want war, but we are ready for war. Whenever the Americans accept that negotiation is different from dictation, talks can begin.
Shah’s Son Calls for Street Protests
Reza Pahlavi, the son of Iran’s last shah who was overthrown in the 1979 revolution, released a video message calling on citizens and soldiers to act. Pahlavi said,
The future is bright and together we will navigate this sharp turn in history. Now is the time to stand; it is time to take back Iran. May I be with you soon.
With rising casualties, communication blackouts, and mounting external pressure, Iran is sliding into a deep political and security crisis. Developments are being closely watched for their implications on regional stability and global power dynamics.
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