Protests in Iran have been ongoing for nearly two weeks, with the government acknowledging the demonstrations as the country remains isolated from the global community. The internet and phone communications within Iran have been disrupted, making it challenging to assess the extent of the protests against the Iranian government from outside the country. The death toll from the protests has risen to at least 65 individuals, with over 2,300 others detained, as reported by the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.
Iranian state television has been reporting on casualties among security forces while emphasizing control over the nation. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has hinted at an impending crackdown, despite warnings from the United States. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for the Iranian people on social media, while the US State Department cautioned against underestimating President Trump’s statements.
Saturday marked the beginning of the workweek in Iran, with many schools and universities conducting online classes, according to Iranian state TV. The television channel continuously airs a patriotic piece by Iranian composer Majid Entezami, commemorating Iran’s 1982 liberation of Khorramshahr during the Iran-Iraq war. The song has been associated with various protests, including demonstrations by women protesting the death of Mahsa Amini in 2022.
Contrary to the state TV reports of peace in most cities at night, online videos verified by the Associated Press showed demonstrations in Tehran and other areas, with significant numbers of people participating. Media outlets close to Iran’s Revolutionary Guard released footage of protests in different cities, depicting violent clashes and attacks on government facilities.
The unrest in Iran has led to casualties, including members of the paramilitary Basij force and security officials in various provinces. Despite the government’s attempts to maintain control, the protests have persisted, signaling a significant potential shift in Middle East politics.