Iranian authorities have vowed a stronger response to anti-government protests that have swept across the country, warning that the unrest poses a serious threat to public safety and state institutions.
Senior commanders of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) described the demonstrations as the work of “terrorists” and pledged to defend the political system, calling the protection of the Islamic Revolution a “red line.” The regular military also said it would safeguard national interests, strategic infrastructure, and public property.
Despite internet restrictions making full verification difficult, reports of clashes between security forces and protesters continue in multiple cities.
State media showed funerals for security personnel reportedly killed in Shiraz, Qom, Hamedan, and other locations, while social media videos showed Tehran streets on fire at night, with protesters chanting slogans against the country’s leadership.
The unrest began on December 28, initially over rising inflation and economic hardship, but it has since evolved into wider political demands, including calls to end clerical rule. Authorities accuse the United States and Israel of fueling the crisis. Human rights group HRANA estimates at least 50 protesters and 15 security personnel have died, with around 2,300 people arrested.
Exiled opposition leader Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah, called on demonstrators to seize control of city centres and intensify nationwide action, hinting at a planned return to Iran.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump warned Tehran against violent suppression of protesters, saying any excessive force could provoke retaliation and emphasizing concern for the demonstrators’ safety.
Medical reports indicate the human cost of the unrest is rising. Hospitals in the northwest are treating large numbers of injured protesters, including those with head injuries, fractures, deep wounds, and gunshot injuries, some of which have been fatal.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed foreign powers for the unrest, accusing protesters of attacking public property as “mercenaries for foreigners” and warning that the state would not tolerate such actions.
