Tehran | Web Desk: Anti-government protests in Iran continued for another consecutive night as the death toll continued to rise and US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning of possible American action.
According to videos circulating on social media, protesters remained on the streets in several Iranian cities despite strict government threats, a nationwide internet shutdown, and the suspension of international communication links. The protests have now spread to around 180 cities and towns across the country.
CBS News reported that the demonstrations initially began in late December in Tehran over worsening economic conditions. However, they quickly spread nationwide and have now become one of the most serious challenges faced by the Iranian government in recent years.
A human rights organization based outside Iran, which relies on sources inside the country, said at least 65 people have been killed so far, including 14 members of the security forces. Unofficial estimates suggest the death toll could be significantly higher. More than 2,300 protesters have been arrested, according to reports.
The protesters appear to be encouraged by continued support from the US administration and appeals from Iran’s exiled crown prince, who has urged the public to increase pressure on security forces and take control of cities and towns. As a result, the protests are showing signs of further escalation.
Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, in a speech broadcast on state television, strongly criticised the US president and accused protesters of damaging their own cities to please Washington. He said the United States should focus on its internal problems instead of interfering in Iran’s affairs. Following his address, state media began labelling protesters as terrorists, raising fears of a large-scale and violent crackdown.
Iran’s Attorney General has warned that those participating in the protests would be treated as “enemies of God,” a charge under Iranian law that can carry the death penalty. The head of the judiciary has also announced that protesters would face the harshest punishments without any legal leniency.
Meanwhile, President Trump issued a direct warning to Iran, saying the United States would respond if protesters were killed. He clarified that any potential action would not involve deploying ground troops but would target Iran “where it hurts the most.” Trump claimed Iranian citizens were taking control of cities that seemed unimaginable just weeks ago and warned Iranian leadership that if they opened fire, the US would respond.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio also voiced support for the Iranian people on social media. As protests intensified, Iranian authorities shut down internet services across the country on Thursday night, which remain suspended. Internet monitoring organisation NetBlocks said the blackout has made it extremely difficult for people to check on the safety of their families and friends.
Due to the internet shutdown and strict censorship, access to ground realities remains limited. However, some reports put the death toll as high as 217, while Iranian authorities have officially acknowledged only a few deaths.
A journalist closely monitoring Iran, who also serves as editor of IranWire and was imprisoned during the 2009 protests, said Trump’s threats have genuinely unsettled Iranian authorities and may have influenced their response. At the same time, he noted that these statements have boosted protesters’ morale, as many now believe the world’s most powerful country is standing with them.
