UPDATE: Iran’s protest death toll has now surpassed 544 people as major unrest enters its third week, prompting urgent warnings from Tehran against potential U.S. military involvement. Demonstrations fueled by economic despair and government crackdowns have escalated, leading to significant retaliatory rhetoric from Iranian officials.
Large crowds gathered across Iran today for pro-regime rallies, with participants carrying images of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and chanting slogans such as “Death to America” in cities like Kerman and Zahedan. State media reported that these marches were organized as a show of support for the regime amid ongoing protests challenging its authority.
As the protests continue, the Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA) reported that at least 544 individuals have been killed, including eight children. This staggering figure highlights the brutal crackdown by the Iranian government, which has arrested over 10,681 people during the unrest. The full extent of the situation remains difficult to ascertain due to a nationwide internet blackout imposed by authorities, now entering its third day.
U.S. President Donald Trump has indicated that military options against Iran are being considered, although no final decisions have been made. “The military is looking at it, and we’re looking at some very strong options,” Trump stated during a press conference on Sunday. His comments come in the wake of reported Iranian overtures for negotiation, suggesting that Tehran may be seeking to mitigate the impact of U.S. pressure.
The Iranian regime has called for a nationwide march today at 2 p.m. local time (5:30 a.m. ET) in response to what officials characterize as acts of desecration against Islamic symbols by protesters. This demonstration aims to reaffirm support for the government amidst widespread dissent.
In Los Angeles, tensions also flared as a driver in a U-Haul truck drove through a crowd of protesters opposing the Iranian government. The driver has been detained, and reports indicate that a man was injured but received treatment on the scene. The incident underscores the global ramifications of Iran’s domestic turmoil, as protests against the regime manifest even in the U.S.
Videos emerging from Iran depict the anguish and desperation of families searching for loved ones at forensic centers, with mourners openly chanting anti-government slogans during funeral ceremonies. The emotional toll of the protests is palpable as citizens grapple with the loss of life and the threat of further violence.
As protests continue to challenge the Iranian government, the international community watches closely for developments. The potential for U.S. intervention remains a critical point of contention, as both sides brace for what could become a significant escalation in the region.
Stay tuned for updates as this situation unfolds.
