Iran protests have turned deadly as the Islamic Republic escalates its crackdown on nationwide demonstrations, killing at least 38 people, including eight children, according to multiple human rights groups. Protests erupted nearly two weeks ago and continue to spread, directly challenging the regime while drawing repeated warnings from President Trump that violence against civilians will trigger U.S. action.
Human rights organizations estimate the death toll ranges from 38 to 57 civilians, with protests now reported in roughly 110 cities across all 31 provinces. Iranian authorities have detained at least 1,200 people and imposed widespread internet blackouts, including across Tehran, giving security forces cover to confront demonstrators. The regime has a documented history of torturing dissidents and suppressing unrest through force.
President Trump addressed the situation directly during a phone interview, saying, “I have let them know that if they start killing people, which they tend to do during their riots—they have lots of riots—if they do it, we’re going to hit them very hard.” He added, “They know, and they’ve been told very strongly… that if they do that, they’re going to have to pay.” In earlier remarks, President Trump warned the regime would “get hit very hard by the United States” if protesters were killed and stated online that the U.S. was “locked and loaded.”
Andrew Ghalili of the National Union for Democracy in Iran said the warnings have “likely already saved Iranian lives,” noting the regime’s reluctance to test President Trump after watching Venezuelan dictator Nicolás Maduro fall.
The unrest began in late December over the collapsing Iranian rial and expanded nationwide. Intelligence shared with the Times of London indicates Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has prepared an escape plan to flee to Moscow if the uprising spirals.
Despite internet blackouts, videos show protesters chanting, “Khamenei, you murderer! [You’ll survive] only in your dreams!” Others display messages pleading, “Don’t let them kill us.”
