Iran Protests Escalate Amid Reports of Thousands Killed and Government Crackdown

Since late December 2025, Iran has experienced widespread protests initially sparked by economic issues but evolving into demands for political change. Human rights groups report that Iranian security forces have killed thousands of protesters—estimates range from over 3,400 to as high as 12,000—with more than 10,000 arrests. The Iranian government acknowledges some deaths but disputes higher figures, attributing unrest to foreign interference. Internet blackouts and communications restrictions have limited independent verification amid ongoing international concern and US expressions of support for protesters.