Death toll and mass arrests confirmed across Iran Activists with the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported that at least 544 people have been killed in the two‑week crackdown, including 496 protesters and 48 security personnel, and more than 10,600 individuals have been detained nationwide[1][2]. The figures represent the highest count since the protests began in early January 2026 and underscore the intensity of the government’s response. Both outlets note that Iranian authorities have not released an official casualty tally, leaving independent verification reliant on activist networks.

Protests persist despite heavy security presence Video footage posted online on Sunday night showed crowds gathering in Tehran and several provincial cities, while state‑run media alternated between portraying calm streets and acknowledging isolated demonstrations[1][2]. Security forces remain visibly deployed, and reports of ongoing unrest continue to emerge from multiple urban centers. The sustained demonstrations indicate that the movement has not been fully suppressed despite the lethal crackdown.

Parliament speaker threatens broad retaliation against U.S. assets Mohammad Baagher Qalibaf warned that any attack on Iran would make all American military installations, bases, and ships in the region legitimate targets, a statement echoed by lawmakers chanting “Death to America” during the session[1][2]. This rhetoric marks a formal escalation in Tehran’s strategic messaging and aligns with previous threats to target U.S. forces in the Persian Gulf.

U.S. President Trump vows unprecedented response Donald Trump told reporters that Washington is prepared to strike Iran at levels never before seen if Tehran retaliates, while senior White House officials discussed a menu of options ranging from cyber operations to direct kinetic strikes[1][2]. The statements reflect heightened U.S. readiness to intervene militarily and signal a potential widening of the conflict beyond Iran’s borders.

Global leaders call for restraint and dialogue Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu expressed support for the Iranian demonstrators, the Vatican urged dialogue, and UN Secretary‑General António Guterres condemned the violence, urging maximum restraint and restoration of communications[1][2]. These calls highlight international concern over the humanitarian fallout and the risk of regional destabilization.