Anti-government demonstrations are spreading across Iran, entering a second week as public anger over economic hardship has evolved into a broader challenge to the country’s clerical leadership established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
Deadly Crackdown Reported
At least 116 people have been killed and more than 2,600 detained during the unrest, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. Iranian authorities have warned protesters they could face severe punishment, including the death penalty, if deemed “enemies of God.”
Opposition Voices Call for Change
Exiled opposition figures say the protests reflect a nationwide rejection of authoritarian rule. Shahin Gobadi, a spokesperson for the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI), described the demonstrations as an uprising aimed at dismantling the current system and replacing it with a democratic republic. He said protesters have rejected both Iran’s former monarchy and its current theocratic leadership.
International Support and Exile Statements
Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s deposed shah, urged demonstrators to remain in the streets, signaling continued support from figures abroad. Protests in solidarity with Iranian demonstrators have also taken place outside the country, including in Europe.
Trump Issues Warnings to Tehran
President Donald Trump said Iran may be “looking at freedom like never before” and warned that the U.S. would respond if authorities used lethal force against protesters. He later said the United States was prepared to “hit them very hard where it hurts,” while the State Department cautioned Iran against testing the administration.
Military Options Discussed
U.S. officials have reportedly discussed possible military responses if the situation escalates, including airstrikes on Iranian targets. No final decisions have been announced, but the talks come as Iran continues to recover from last year’s conflict with Israel and U.S. strikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Tehran Pushes Back
Iranian leaders have accused the U.S. of fueling the unrest and warned that any American attack would prompt retaliation against U.S. bases and assets in the region. Officials insist they will distinguish between legitimate protests and what they describe as violent acts.
Unrest Echoes Past Protests
The demonstrations mark the most significant unrest since 2022, when nationwide protests erupted after the death of Mahsa Amini while in custody of Iran’s morality police. Human rights groups say hundreds were killed during that crackdown, underscoring the risks facing today’s protesters.
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