Massive Protests Rock Iran as Regime Cracks Down, Drawing Global Attention
by CrownHeights.info
As protests in Iran enter their second week, the Islamic Republic is facing one of its most severe challenges to its hold on power in recent years, with widespread demonstrations demanding an end to its authoritarian rule.
According to international media outlets, the death toll from the clashes has risen to at least 65, with security forces using live fire against demonstrators. However, opposition-linked sources, such as Iran International, estimate a far higher figure, suggesting that at least 2,000 people have been killed in the past 48 hours alone. Protesters have reportedly damaged regime institutions in multiple cities, and footage from the ground shows massive crowds chanting anti-government slogans, including in Shiraz where large gatherings have taken to the streets.
The Iranian government has imposed a near-total internet shutdown since January 8th, severely restricting access to information and communication. NetBlocks, an internet watchdog, confirmed that the blackout persisted into Saturday night, with many protesters relying on services like Starlink to connect with the outside world.
In a notable development, Iranian opposition figures and protesters have received vocal support from international leaders. U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly warned Iran against harming demonstrators, stating on social media that the U.S. stands ready to help and emphasizing that “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before.” Trump administration officials have reportedly held initial discussions on potential military strikes against Iran, including large-scale air attacks on military targets, though no consensus has been reached and no forces have been deployed yet. U.S. Secretary of War Pete Hegseth shared Trump’s post on the matter, while Senator Lindsey Graham encouraged protesters, saying, “Help is on the way.
“Israeli officials are closely monitoring the situation, with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu warning that any Iranian attack on Israel would bring “horrible consequences.” Israel’s Channel 13 reported a high alert status in the country amid the unrest and U.S. threats. According to Channel 12, Israel has no plans to strike Iran but is preparing for self-defense. This comes as Iranian state media accuses protesters of links to foreign entities, including claims of a “single command center” plotting chaos.
The protests have also prompted international repercussions, with major airlines such as Lufthansa, flydubai, Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Austrian Airlines suspending flights to Iran. In diaspora communities, Iranians gathered in places like London to sing the resistance anthem “Ey Iran” in solidarity.
Iranian President Maqsoud Pezeshkian has accused Washington of inciting chaos, claiming public support for the regime remains strong. Meanwhile, Iran’s army has pledged to defend “national interests” amid the turmoil. Reports of high-profile casualties include the killing of Basij paramilitary commander Farajollah Shoushtari in Mashhad during clashes.
For the Jewish community, the instability in Iran—a longtime adversary of Israel—raises questions about regional security and the potential for positive change if the regime weakens.
