UPDATE: The death toll in Iran’s ongoing protests has surged to at least 544, as authorities brace for escalating tensions with the United States. This urgent situation unfolds as large crowds gather in cities like Kerman and Zahedan for pro-regime demonstrations, showcasing the stark divide between supporters and opponents of the clerical regime.
As of this morning, Iranian state media report thousands have rallied in support of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, chanting slogans including “Death to America.” This backdrop of unrest comes amid a brutal crackdown that has seen a shocking number of casualties, including eight children, as protests enter their third week.
URGENT CONTEXT: The protests, fueled by economic despair and a deadly crackdown on dissent, represent one of the most significant challenges to Iran’s leadership in years. The Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) reports that over 10,681 individuals have been arrested since the demonstrations began.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump has hinted at possible military intervention, stating his administration is weighing “very strong options.” This includes potential strikes or new sanctions targeting the Iranian economy. Trump revealed that Iran has reached out for negotiations, suggesting a possible shift in diplomatic dynamics.
COMMS BLACKOUT: In a critical development, Iran is experiencing a severe internet blackout, disrupting communication and hindering the flow of information. Cybersecurity watchdog NetBlocks confirmed that access to internet and telephone lines was cut off 84 hours ago, making it challenging to assess the full extent of the situation on the ground.
The Iranian government has called for a nationwide march today at 2 p.m. local time (5:30 a.m. ET) in a show of strength against what they describe as desecration of Islamic symbols by protesters. As state-backed rallies unfold, defiant demonstrations continue across the country, with footage revealing protesters chanting “Long live the Shah” and expressing their grief over the loss of loved ones.
In a separate incident, a driver was detained after a U-Haul truck drove through a crowd of anti-Iranian government protesters in Los Angeles, resulting in injuries described as not significant.
As families mourn, videos from funerals show mourners openly chanting anti-government slogans, amplifying the emotional toll of this crisis. The situation remains fluid, with many watching closely for further developments as the Iranian regime faces unprecedented internal and external pressures.
WHAT TO WATCH FOR: As the protests intensify, all eyes are on the responses from both the Iranian government and the U.S. administration. The potential for military intervention could alter the landscape of this conflict, while the humanitarian situation within Iran continues to deteriorate.
Stay tuned for ongoing updates as this critical situation unfolds.
