Widespread Demonstrations Continue Amid Nationwide Internet Blackout Anti‑government protests erupted in late December and have spread to Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz, Qom and other cities, drawing thousands of participants despite a government‑imposed internet shutdown lasting roughly 48 hours according to Netblocks [2]. Security forces have maintained a heavy presence, and families continue to gather at memorial sites while communications remain limited [1][2]. Rights groups report thousands of detainees as the crackdown persists across the country [1][2].

Death Toll Estimates Diverge Between Sources The Iranian regime’s violent response has produced conflicting casualty figures: Newsweek cites a death toll that has risen above 2,000, referencing HRANA and other local sources [1], whereas The Hindu reports at least 51 deaths documented by the Iran Human Rights group, noting the possibility of a higher count [2]. Both outlets agree that the true number is difficult to verify amid the blackout and restricted media access. The disparity highlights challenges in obtaining reliable data during the ongoing suppression.

U.S. President Issues Dual Threats and Economic Leverage President Donald Trump warned on CBS that the United States would take “very strong action” if Iran proceeds with executions of detained protesters, linking the threat to the rising death toll [1]. Earlier, Trump announced via Truth Social that the U.S. stands ready to assist the Iranian movement [2]. Concurrently, a 25 percent tariff on countries trading with Iran took effect, intended as economic pressure alongside potential military options [1].

European Institutions Escalate Diplomatic Pressure on Tehran The European Parliament, led by President Roberta Metsola, banned Iranian diplomatic staff from its premises, signaling a refusal to legitimize the regime amid the crackdown [1]. The Netherlands summoned Iran’s ambassador, and the EU is considering additional sanctions under its human‑rights framework [1]. These moves reflect a coordinated European response complementing U.S. actions.

Human Rights Organizations Document Lethal Force and Detentions Amnesty International is analyzing reports of intensified unlawful lethal force by security forces since early January [2]. Iranian rights groups estimate thousands of arrests, with families mourning victims at hospitals and memorial sites [1][2]. The combined documentation underscores widespread allegations of human‑rights violations during the protests.