Death Toll Reaches At Least 544 Across Iran Human‑rights monitors tally a minimum of 544 fatalities, including eight children, from anti‑government demonstrations that have now entered a third week [1][2]. Security forces have arrested thousands of participants as protests spread through multiple provinces [2]. The surge in casualties underscores the intensity of the nationwide unrest [1].

Nationwide Internet and Phone Shutdown Extends Beyond Three Days Iran’s authorities maintain a communications blackout that has lasted over 84 hours according to one report and more than 72 hours according to another, crippling independent verification of events [1][2]. Both state and independent observers note that the outage hampers information flow and obscures the true scale of the crackdown [2]. The prolonged shutdown fuels uncertainty about further developments on the ground [1].

Security Forces Deploy Basij, Declare Three Days Mourning The Basij, a volunteer paramilitary wing of the Revolutionary Guard, is deployed as a core security force to suppress the protests [1]. In response to the deaths, Iran’s cabinet announced three days of national mourning, while state media reported casualties among both protesters and security personnel [2]. The government’s dual narrative emphasizes both the loss of civilian lives and the sacrifice of its own forces [1].

U.S. and Britain React Amid Escalating Tensions President Trump is reported to be weighing a range of responses, from sanctions to possible strikes, after Tehran’s crackdown [1][2]. The FBI joined local authorities in Los Angeles to investigate a moving‑truck incident that struck protesters, detaining the driver for further questioning [1][2]. Separately, Iran summoned the British ambassador following a London protester’s removal of the Iranian embassy flag, heightening diplomatic friction [2].