Iran's regime has intensified its crackdown on nationwide protests now entering their third week, with reports indicating at least 116 deaths and more than 2,600 detentions since demonstrations began on December 28. The attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, issued a stark warning that all participants in the protests would be charged as "enemies of God," an offence punishable by death under Islamic law. This severe legal threat has heightened fears among demonstrators and their families amid an ongoing near-total internet blackout.

Protests have spread across multiple provinces, including Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Ilam, Kermanshah, Fars, and the capital Tehran, where unrest first erupted over the country's severe currency crisis and deteriorating living conditions. Human rights organisations, citing information gathered despite restricted access, have documented fatalities in various cities, though the regime has provided no official confirmation of the casualty figures. The internet suspension, now in its third day, has severely limited the flow of information and made real-time verification extremely difficult.

The escalation follows a public call by Reza Pahlavi, the US-based son of Iran's deposed shah, urging protesters to move beyond street demonstrations and prepare to seize and hold city centres. His video message has energised segments of the opposition, contributing to the growing scale and boldness of the movement. Protesters have continued to demand fundamental political change despite the mounting risk of lethal force.

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US President Donald Trump weighed in on the situation via Truth Social, stating that Iran is "looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before" and declaring that the United States "stands ready to help." His remarks came after Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused Trump of having "hands stained with the blood" of Iranians, amid broader international concern over the regime's handling of the unrest. The comments have further polarised global reactions to the crisis.

With communication channels severely restricted and state-controlled media providing limited coverage, the full extent of the crackdown remains difficult to assess. Rights groups have expressed alarm over the reported use of lethal force and the potential for mass trials under capital charges. The situation continues to evolve rapidly as both the regime and protesters appear increasingly determined in their respective positions.

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