Protests across Iran against the ruling theocracy have continued for over two weeks, with demonstrators filling the streets of the capital and the country’s second-largest city. Reports indicate at least 116 people have died amid the turmoil.
As the internet and phone services remain disrupted in Iran, it’s increasingly challenging to monitor the protests from outside the country.
The situation is dire, with the U.S.-based Human Rights Defenders News Agency reporting that 2,600 individuals have been detained in connection with the protests.
Meanwhile, the speaker of Iran’s parliament has stated that the U.S. military and Israel could become “legitimate targets” if there are any military actions against Iran, a sentiment echoed amid cries of “Death to America!” from some lawmakers.
Concerns loom over the possibility that intensified intelligence measures could lead to aggressive crackdowns by hardliners in Iran’s security services. This comes at a time when President Trump has expressed readiness to intervene to protect peaceful protesters.
Trump shared his support on social media, expressing that “Iran wants freedom more than perhaps ever. America stands ready to help!!!” Reports have surfaced suggesting he has been presented with military options regarding Iran, although no final decision has been made.
In a stark warning, the State Department cautioned, “Don’t play games with President Trump. When he says he’s going to do something, he means it.”
Parliamentary Session
The parliamentary session in Iran was broadcast live, with Speaker Qalibaf praising the security forces for their strong response during the protests. He stated to the public that everyone involved in the protests would face severe repercussions.
Qalibaf emphasized that both Israel and U.S. military installations could be targeted if Iran were attacked, and he underscored a proactive stance rather than waiting for a post-attack response.
Speculation remains as to how seriously Iran might retaliate, especially given their previous losses against Israel in a short conflict earlier this year.
Ultimately, the decision about engaging militarily rests with Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei, who is 86 years old.
The U.S. military has indicated it is amassing forces with varied combat capabilities to safeguard its interests and allies in the region.
Protests in Major Cities
Demonstrations have also surfaced in Kerman, and Iranian state television reported on protests in various cities, although not including Tehran or Mashhad. While some areas have seen pro-government demonstrations, Khamenei suggested an impending crackdown.
Warnings from officials have escalated, with the attorney general stating that those participating in the protests could be labeled “enemies of God,” facing severe penalties. The Iranian government, having cut off many communications, allows limited media coverage from certain state-run outlets.
In a call to action, Iran’s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi urged citizens to escalate protests, suggesting they don the old symbols of Iran from the era before the Islamic Revolution. While there have been chants calling for the Shah, it’s unclear if this implies support for Pahlavi or a broader desire for pre-revolutionary governance.
The demonstrations began in December over the plummeting value of the rial, which has fallen to over 1.4 million to the dollar, reflecting the strain of international sanctions. What began as a financial complaint quickly transformed into a larger challenge to the theocratic regime.
