Tehran/Washington, January 10, 2026 – Iran is currently gripped by a wave of nationwide protests that have evolved from economic frustration into a direct challenge to the Islamic Republic’s leadership. Witnesses in Tehran have described horrific scenes of violence, with medical personnel reporting “bodies piled up” in hospitals following a severe crackdown by security forces on Friday night.
The Human Cost According to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 116 people have been killed in the past 14 days, including 38 security personnel. The toll among protesters includes at least seven minors. Hospitals in Tehran and Shiraz are reportedly overwhelmed, with doctors describing hundreds of patients suffering from pellet wounds and live ammunition injuries.
Internet Blackout and Escalation Authorities imposed a near-total internet and telephone blackout on January 8 to stifle the movement, which has now spread to over 185 cities. However, residents suggest the move has backfired, driving more frustrated citizens into the streets. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has blamed “foreign enemies” for inciting the riots, while the Iranian Army has been deployed to protect strategic infrastructure.
International Warning U.S. President Donald Trump has issued a series of stern warnings to the Iranian regime, stating that the United States “stands ready to help” the protesters. Following the recent capture of Venezuelan leader Nicolás Maduro, Trump’s explicit threat to intervene if the crackdown continues has added a layer of extreme uncertainty to the geopolitical standoff.
