Protests continued in Iran on Friday night, as seen in online videos, despite warnings from the government to suppress demonstrators by shutting down the internet and disrupting communication lines. The ongoing protests, triggered by economic challenges in late December, have evolved into a significant opposition to the regime in Iran, resulting in at least 65 fatalities.
The state media has labeled the protesters as “terrorists,” potentially paving the way for a forceful crackdown, reminiscent of previous countrywide demonstrations. Despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s assurance to support peaceful protesters, Iranian authorities have issued stern warnings of severe consequences for those involved in the protests.
Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused the protesters of causing chaos to please President Trump, urging him to focus on his own country’s affairs. International leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron, have condemned the reported violence against the protesters and called for Iran to respect the right of citizens to express themselves without fear.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi criticized the Iranian regime for its oppressive tactics, emphasizing the need for Western governments to denounce the cruelty imposed by the theocracy. President Trump has reiterated his commitment to intervene if protesters are harmed, emphasizing a strong stance against Iran.
Despite the government’s efforts to restrict communication, videos shared online display ongoing protests in various parts of Iran, with demonstrators expressing discontent towards the government. The protests, which include calls for the return of the former Shah of Iran, have been met with a violent response, leading to casualties and numerous arrests.
The protests, instigated by Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, have gained momentum, with support pouring in through social media platforms. Pahlavi has urged Trump to assist the protesters, highlighting the regime’s attempts to suppress dissent through communication blackouts. State media reported violent incidents during the protests, with casualties reported in different regions of Iran, indicating a widespread unrest across the country.