Iran witnessed a sharp escalation in nationwide protests on Thursday as demonstrations against the country’s clerical leadership spread across dozens of cities, prompting authorities to impose a near-total internet shutdown amid an ongoing security crackdown.
The protests, which began on December 28, 2025, were initially triggered by a deepening economic crisis, including a falling rial and rising living costs. What started with a shutdown of the Tehran Bazaar has since evolved into a broad-based movement challenging the government’s handling of the economy.
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), protests were reported in at least 46 cities across 21 provinces. Market closures were also observed in several Kurdish-majority regions, including Kurdistan, West Azerbaijan, Kermanshah, and Ilam provinces.
Rising Casualties and Arrests
HRANA reported that at least 42 people were killed between December 28 and January 8. The fatalities reportedly include 29 civilians, eight security personnel, and five children and adolescents under the age of 18.
Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights stated that 13 protesters were killed on Wednesday alone, highlighting a sharp rise in violence.
Authorities have also intensified arrests. HRANA said at least 60 more people were detained on Thursday, bringing the total number of arrests since the protests began to over 2,277. Among those detained are 166 minors and 48 university students. The group further alleged that forced confessions have been broadcast on state television in at least 45 cases.
Massive Rallies in Tehran and Beyond
Visuals circulating on social media showed large crowds filling major roads in Tehran, including Ayatollah Kashani Boulevard in the city’s northwest, according to AFP. Demonstrations were also reported from Abadan and other cities.
Some unverified posts on X claimed clashes between protesters and security forces, as well as damage to government buildings in cities such as Tehran and Mashhad. These claims could not be independently confirmed.
Nationwide Internet Blackout
Internet monitoring group NetBlocks reported a nationwide internet blackout, citing live network data. The watchdog said the move followed escalating digital restrictions and severely limited the public’s ability to communicate during a critical period.
The internet shutdown drew condemnation from exiled Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi, who accused authorities of silencing dissent by cutting off communication channels and attempting to jam satellite signals. He urged European leaders to support Iranian protesters and hold the government accountable.
International Response
US President Donald Trump issued a fresh warning to Iran, cautioning that Washington would take severe action if authorities continued to kill protesters. He said the United States would “hit them very hard” if the violence escalated further.
