Widespread Protests Erupt in Iran as Tensions Escalate
On Thursday, protests in Iran surged, becoming the largest demonstrations in almost two weeks as they spread across the nation, challenging the clerical leadership. In response, authorities cut off internet access in various regions, and the number of reported casualties from the government crackdown continues to climb.
The wave of protests began on December 28 when Tehran’s historic bazaar shut down due to the Iranian rial’s drastic decline. What initially started as an outcry over economic issues has now evolved into widespread calls against the establishment, with significant gatherings taking place in the capital and other major cities.
The unrest presents a significant challenge for Iran’s leadership led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, who is already facing intense pressure from a lingering economic crisis exacerbated by years of sanctions and the fallout from the June conflict with Israel.
Adding to the situation, U.S. President Joe Biden issued a stern warning on Thursday, stating that the U.S. would respond firmly if Iranian authorities resorted to aggressive measures against their people, emphasizing that any harm to civilians would be met with a strong backlash.
Human rights organizations have raised alarms about the use of deadly force by Iranian security forces against protesters. The Norway-based organization Iran Human Rights (IHR) reported that at least 45 demonstrators, including eight minors, have lost their lives since the protests began, with the deadliest day recorded on Wednesday, resulting in 13 confirmed fatalities.
“The evidence indicates that the crackdown is becoming increasingly violent and widespread,” said IHR director Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, noting that hundreds have been injured and over 2,000 have been arrested.
In contrast, Iranian media and official reports have confirmed at least 21 deaths so far, including among security personnel. Reports indicate that an Iranian police officer lost his life near Tehran while attempting to manage the unrest.
Despite the government’s attempts to quell the protests, demonstrations persisted into Thursday night. Videos verified by AFP depicted large crowds gathering on Ayatollah Kashani Boulevard in northwest Tehran, alongside protests in the oil-rich city of Abadan.
