Tehran (Web-Desk) Protests have continued across Iran for a second consecutive week, with demonstrations reported in the capital Tehran as well as several major and provincial cities, amid growing domestic unrest and mounting international scrutiny. According to BBC Persian, at least 22 people have been killed so far, with their identities verified through independent sources, as security forces attempt to contain the widening movement.
The demonstrations, which began as protests over economic conditions and governance issues, have evolved into broader expressions of public dissatisfaction. Witnesses and activists say large crowds have gathered despite increased security presence, internet restrictions, and warnings from authorities. In several cities, protesters have been seen chanting slogans calling for political change, accountability, and greater personal freedoms.
Internet Disruptions and Crackdown
Access to the internet has been severely restricted in many areas, a move rights groups say is aimed at limiting communication among protesters and preventing images and videos from reaching the outside world. Social media platforms have been intermittently blocked, and mobile data services have reportedly been shut down in parts of Tehran and other urban centres.
Human rights organisations have accused Iranian security forces of using excessive force to disperse crowds, including batons, tear gas, and live ammunition in some cases. Iranian authorities have not released official casualty figures, and state media coverage of the protests has been limited.
BBC Persian, citing verified sources, said it had confirmed the deaths of at least 22 individuals. Activists believe the true number may be higher, though independent verification remains difficult due to restricted access and communications.
Reza Pahlavi Breaks Silence
In his first public response to the protests, Iran’s former crown prince, Reza Pahlavi, thanked demonstrators for what he described as their courage and persistence. In a statement shared through social media platforms accessible outside Iran, he criticised the authorities for internet shutdowns, violence against protesters, and attempts to silence dissenting voices.
Pahlavi said the demonstrations reflected deep-rooted grievances within Iranian society and called on the international community to support the Iranian people’s right to peaceful protest. His comments mark a rare direct intervention in ongoing events inside Iran by the former royal figure.
Trump Issues Warning
On the 13th day of the protest movement, former US President Donald Trump issued a renewed warning to Iran, saying continued violence against protesters could lead to what he described as “strong action” by the United States.
Speaking in an interview with American journalist Hugh Hewitt, Trump said dozens of people had already been killed during the unrest. He added that some deaths occurred when security forces attempted to disperse protesters, while others reportedly died during stampedes caused by crowd panic.
“The number of protesters is increasing,” Trump said, according to excerpts from the interview. He added that reports of chaos and casualties during demonstrations were continuing to emerge.
Trump said it was not entirely clear who should be held responsible for the violence, but added that Iran had been given a clear and forceful message regarding the treatment of demonstrators. His remarks came amid ongoing anti-government protests across the country.
The Iranian government has not officially responded to Trump’s comments.
European Leaders React
Concern has also been voiced by senior European officials. The President of the European Parliament, Roberta Metsola, said the world was once again witnessing what she described as the bravery of the Iranian people.
In a public message, Metsola said Iranians were raising their voices for dignity, freedom, and the right to choose how they live and govern themselves. She added that these calls were being heard beyond Iran’s borders and deserved attention from the international community.
Meanwhile, Austria’s Foreign Minister, Beate Meinl-Reisinger, expressed alarm over reports of violent action by Iranian security forces against peaceful protesters, particularly those demonstrating against the sharp decline in the country’s currency and rising cost of living.
In a statement, Meinl-Reisinger said Iran, as a member of the United Nations, was bound by international obligations to protect human rights and fundamental freedoms. She noted that calls for freedom had been echoing across Iran for weeks, with citizens demanding dignity, economic justice, and the right to live freely.
Economic Pressures Fuel Discontent
Analysts say the protests have been fuelled by worsening economic conditions, including inflation, unemployment, and the falling value of Iran’s currency. Many Iranians have seen their purchasing power erode in recent months, with rising prices of food, fuel, and basic necessities placing increasing strain on households.
Demonstrations over economic grievances are not new in Iran, but observers say the scale and persistence of the current unrest are notable. Protesters have included students, workers, and middle-class citizens, suggesting dissatisfaction cuts across social groups.
State authorities have blamed foreign influence for the unrest, a claim frequently made during periods of protest. However, critics argue that domestic economic hardship and restrictions on political and social freedoms are the primary drivers.
Security Response and Arrests
Iranian security forces have increased patrols in major cities, and checkpoints have been set up in some areas. Local media reports suggest hundreds of people have been detained since the protests began, though official arrest figures have not been released.
Families of detainees have told Persian-language media outlets that they have struggled to obtain information about their relatives, raising concerns about due process and access to legal representation.
Amnesty International and other rights organisations have called on Iranian authorities to release those detained for peacefully exercising their right to protest and to ensure an independent investigation into reported deaths.
Uncertain Path Ahead
Despite the crackdown, demonstrations have continued, with new gatherings reported in several cities. Protesters appear undeterred by the security response, though observers say the sustainability of the movement will depend on organisation, leadership, and the state’s next steps.
Iran’s leadership has yet to make a comprehensive public address specifically focused on the protests. In the past, authorities have combined security measures with limited economic concessions to quell unrest.
For now, the situation remains fluid. With fatalities rising, internet access restricted, and international attention increasing, Iran faces renewed pressure at home and abroad. Whether the protests lead to policy changes or further confrontation remains uncertain, but they have once again highlighted deep divisions within Iranian society and the challenges facing its leadership.