Middle East
Iran protest death toll crosses 500 amid crackdown
Human Rights Activists News Agency said Iran’s security crackdown has killed at least 538 people, including 490 protesters and 48 members of the security forces, with more than 10,600 arrests over the past two weeks. An internet blackout has made independent verification difficult as Tehran escalated warnings toward the United States and Israel amid mounting threats of military action. The protests began on December 28 over rising prices and later broadened into opposition to Iran’s clerical leadership. President Donald Trump warned of possible US intervention during a briefing with senior advisers on Tuesday. UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was shocked by the violence and urged restraint.
At least 538 people have been killed in Iran as security forces moved to crush protests that began over rising prices and quickly turned into a wider challenge to the country’s leadership. The deaths have occurred over the past two weeks, and activists say the toll could climb further after authorities shut down internet and phone services, making it harder to track casualties. More than 10,600 people have been arrested since the demonstrations erupted on December 28. As tensions rise, Iran’s parliamentary speaker warned that any US attack would make American forces and Israel legitimate targets.
Escalating Violence And Arrests
The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said at least 490 protesters and 48 members of Iran’s security forces have been killed as unrest continues to grip the country. Verifying the toll has become increasingly difficult after authorities imposed widespread internet and phone blackouts. State television has aired images of body bags, while officials in Tehran insist those killed were “armed terrorists.” On Sunday, protests spread through the capital and Iran’s second-largest city, in what activists describe as the biggest demonstrations since 2022. The unrest began on December 28 over rising prices before evolving into a broader challenge to the political system created after the 1979 revolution.
Iranian Threats To US And Israel
Iran’s parliamentary speaker said any attack on the country would have serious consequences, adding that US military bases and ships would become legitimate targets. Inside parliament, lawmakers responded with chants of “Death to America.” On Monday, authorities also organised nationwide rallies condemning what they called US and Israeli actions against Iran. President Masoud Pezeshkian echoed the message, accusing Washington and Israel of stirring unrest inside the country.
Trump Administration Response
President Donald Trump warned that the United States could step in if Iranian forces continued to use violence against protesters. During a briefing on Tuesday, his senior advisers reviewed possible responses, ranging from sanctions and cyber operations to military action and help keep online communications open. UN Secretary-General António Guterres said he was shocked by the violence and called on all sides to show restraint and protect basic rights. Inside Iran, the internet shutdown has given hard-liners greater freedom to press ahead with a tougher crackdown.
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