Iran is experiencing its most widespread anti-government unrest in years as mass protests, now in their thirteenth consecutive day as of January 10, 2026, continue to erupt across major cities and all 31 provinces. What began in late December 2025 as demonstrations against soaring inflation, a collapsing currency (the rial hitting record lows), and economic hardship has evolved into open calls for the overthrow of the Islamic Republic. Protesters have chanted slogans denouncing clerical rule, set fires to vehicles and buildings, and clashed with security forces, despite a nationwide internet blackout imposed since January 8 that has severely limited communication and information flow out of the country.
The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), Iran's elite paramilitary force, has hardened its stance by declaring the safeguarding of national security and the achievements of the 1979 Islamic Revolution as a "red line." In statements broadcast on state media, the IRGC accused "terrorists" and foreign elements of targeting military bases and killing citizens and personnel and vowed that the continuation of unrest is unacceptable. Iran's regular army has echoed this resolve, pledging to protect public property, strategic infrastructure, and national interests while warning against "enemy plots." These declarations come amid reports of escalating repression, with security forces using live ammunition, tear gas, and other measures, leading to significant casualties.
Rights groups report at least 65 people killed, including protesters and some security personnel, along with over 2,300 detentions since the unrest began. Independent monitors like the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency and the Norway-based Iran Human Rights have documented deaths, including children, and widespread injuries from the crackdown. The internet shutdown, now entering its third day, has cut off much of the world from real-time visuals and updates, though sporadic videos show large crowds in Tehran, Mashhad, and other cities defying the blackout. Schools and universities have shifted to online classes, and state TV has blamed "rioters" for incidents like the burning of municipal buildings.
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International attention has intensified, with US President Donald Trump repeatedly warning Iranian authorities against killing protesters, stating the US would respond forcefully—"hitting them very, very hard"—without boots on the ground if violence escalates. Trump has described Iran as "in big trouble" and expressed support for the "brave people" of Iran. In contrast, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has accused demonstrators of serving foreign interests, particularly the US, and vowed not to back down. Exiled figures like Reza Pahlavi, son of the late Shah, have urged continued protests and even preparations to seize city centers.
The protests represent a profound challenge to the regime amid a severe economic crisis exacerbated by sanctions, mismanagement, and recent geopolitical tensions. While the government maintains control through force and communications restrictions, the scale and persistence of the demonstrations—spreading from bazaars to impoverished regions—highlight deep-seated grievances. As weekend rallies loom, the situation remains highly volatile, with potential for further escalation amid hardening positions from both domestic authorities and international actors.
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