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Death toll rises amid nationwide protests
Iranian authorities have killed at least 512 protesters and 134 security personnel since demonstrations erupted in late December, according to the US-based Iranian Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). Another 579 reported deaths remain unverified. Thousands have been detained as the government cracks down on dissent.
Economic crisis sparks unrest
The protests began on 28 December when shopkeepers in Tehran took to the streets to protest the rial's collapse. The currency has lost significant value against the US dollar over the past year, pushing inflation to 40% and driving up prices for essential goods like cooking oil and meat. Sanctions over Iran's nuclear program, combined with government mismanagement and corruption, have crippled the economy.
Protests spread, calls for regime change grow
University students soon joined the demonstrations, which quickly spread to other cities. Protesters chanted slogans against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and support for Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's late shah, gained traction. HRANA reported protests in 187 cities and towns across all 31 provinces, though the total number of participants remains unclear. Over 10,000 people have been arrested.
Violent crackdown
Security forces have used water cannons, live ammunition, and other weapons against protesters. Hospitals in Tehran are reportedly overwhelmed with casualties. Iran's judiciary chief promised "swift and harsh" punishment for "rioters," with courts instructed to show no leniency.
Among the dead are Amir Mohammad Koohkan, a 26-year-old football coach, and Rubina Aminian, a 23-year-old Kurdish fashion student. Footage from Tehran's Kahrizak Forensic Centre showed families searching for loved ones among at least 180 shrouded bodies. Another video verified by the BBC depicted mourners at a funeral chanting "Death to Khamenei."
Internet blackout silences dissent
Iran has imposed an internet blackout since 8 January, cutting off most communication with the outside world. While international phone calls reportedly resumed on 13 January, access to social media and Western news sites remains heavily restricted. Some Iranians have used Elon Musk's Starlink satellite network to bypass restrictions, though authorities warn such connections can be traced.
Regime claims control, blames foreign interference
On 12 January, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi declared that security forces had regained "total control" over the protests. State media reported pro-government rallies in solidarity against "terrorist actions." The government also announced three days of mourning for "martyrs" killed in what it described as a "national battle against the US and Israel," accusing both countries of fomenting unrest.
US threatens military action
US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned of military intervention if Iranian security forces kill protesters. On 11 January, he told reporters that Tehran had reached out to negotiate but cautioned that he might act before talks could begin. A US official confirmed to CBS News that Trump had been briefed on military strike options.
Trump also threatened a 25% tariff on countries doing business with Iran, though it remains unclear whether this applies to all nations or only major trading partners like China, India, and Turkey. The administration has not clarified if the tariff would be in addition to existing duties imposed in 2025.
Araghchi responded that Iran is "fully prepared for war" but open to "fair" negotiations. The Wall Street Journal reported other US options, including further sanctions, support for anti-government voices online, or cyberattacks on Iran's military.
Iran's political landscape
Iran, a regional power with a population of 90 million, is governed by Supreme Leader Khamenei, who holds ultimate authority. While the country has a parliament, its members are largely loyal to Khamenei, limiting political opposition. The 1979 Islamic Revolution overthrew the Western-backed shah, establishing a strict Shia Muslim regime that suppresses dissent and restricts personal freedoms.
Women's mandatory headscarf laws have fueled mass protests in recent years. Iran also has one of the world's highest execution rates and is frequently criticized for human rights abuses. Strained relations with Western nations, particularly the US, have persisted since the revolution, with Washington accusing Tehran of destabilizing the Middle East through support for groups like Hamas, Hezbollah, and the Houthis.
The US opposes Iran's nuclear program, claiming it aims to develop nuclear weapons-a charge Iran denies. In June 2025, the US bombed Iranian nuclear sites, exacerbating tensions. International sanctions have further isolated Iran's economy.
