Death Toll in Iran Protests Reaches at Least 538 as Crackdown Intensifies

Activists report that the death toll from the crackdown on protests in Iran has reached at least 538, with over 10,600 detained. The Iranian government has not confirmed these figures amid escalating tensions.

Activists reported that at least 538 individuals have died in Iran due to a crackdown on protests, with fears of more casualties. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency noted over 10,600 detentions during the two-week unrest. Of those killed, 490 were protesters and 48 were security personnel. The Iranian government has not provided casualty figures, and the internet shutdown complicates external assessments.

US President Donald Trump expressed support for the Iranian protesters, stating on social media that "Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!" Meanwhile, Trump's administration is considering various responses against Iran, including cyberattacks and direct strikes by the US or Israel. However, no decisions have been made public yet.

Protests in Tehran and Mashhad

In Tehran's Punak neighbourhood, demonstrators reportedly gathered despite authorities blocking streets. Videos showed protesters waving lit phones and banging metal as fireworks erupted. The Human Rights Activists News Agency described these protests as short-lived and scattered due to heavy security presence. Surveillance drones and security forces monitored protest sites closely.

In Mashhad, Iran's second-largest city, footage showed protesters confronting security forces. Protests also occurred in Kerman, southeast of Tehran. Iranian state TV displayed calm scenes in several cities but excluded Tehran and Mashhad from coverage. Government rhetoric intensified with accusations against some demonstrators of acts similar to ISIS.

Defiance in Parliament

Mohammad Baagher Qalibaf, a hard-liner speaker in Iran's parliament, threatened the US military and Israel during a speech. He stated that "the occupied territory" and American military centres would be legitimate targets if Iran is attacked. Lawmakers responded with chants of "Death to America!" However, it remains uncertain how serious Iran is about launching a strike.

The US military has stated its readiness to defend its forces and interests in the Middle East. Iran previously targeted US forces at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Meanwhile, Israel is closely monitoring the situation between the US and Iran. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu discussed Iran with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

International Reactions

Pope Leo XIV mentioned Iran as a place where tensions continue to claim lives, expressing hope for dialogue and peace. Demonstrations supporting Iranian protesters occurred in international capitals. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres was "shocked by reports of violence against protesters," urging Iranian authorities to exercise restraint and restore communications.

The protests began on December 28 due to the collapse of the Iranian rial currency amidst economic sanctions related to its nuclear program. These demonstrations have evolved into direct challenges against Iran's theocracy. Even reformist President Masoud Pezeshkian adopted a tougher stance, emphasizing the need to address people's concerns while preventing societal destruction by rioters.

With inputs from PTI