On Saturday night, protesters surged back onto the streets of Iran, voicing their discontent with chants directed against the government. In response, Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guards issued a stark warning, declaring the maintenance of national security a “red line”. The military echoed this sentiment, pledging to “vigorously protect” the country against any forces seeking to undermine order and peace.
Escalation in Tehran
The capital city, Tehran, reverberated with anti-government slogans throughout Saturday night. Despite a deadly crackdown by authorities and widespread internet blackouts, demonstrators persisted, fuelling what has become the largest protest movement against the Islamic republic in over three years.
Unprecedented Challenge to the Regime
The protests, which have continued for two weeks, represent one of the most significant challenges Iran’s theocratic rulers have faced since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Nevertheless, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has remained defiant, attributing the unrest to interference from the United States.
International Involvement and Statements
On Saturday, US President Donald Trump stated that America was “ready to help” the protest movement. His remarks followed a warning issued on Friday, in which he claimed Iran was in “big trouble.” Trump also reaffirmed the possibility of new military action, referencing Washington’s support for Israel during its 12-day conflict with Iran in June.
“Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!” Trump posted on Truth Social.
Origins and Evolution of the Protests
The demonstrations initially erupted due to acute economic hardship but have since evolved into calls demanding the removal of the country’s clerical leadership.
On Saturday, crowds once again gathered in northern Tehran, lighting fireworks and banging pots while chanting slogans in support of the ousted monarchy. This was documented in video footage verified by AFP.
Protest Tactics and Government Crackdown
Additional videos circulating on social media—though not immediately verified by AFP—revealed further demonstrations across the capital, with protesters repeating anti-government slogans. Reza Pahlavi, the US-based son of Iran’s deposed shah, encouraged Iranians to organise more targeted protests over the weekend, following mass demonstrations on Friday. In a video posted on social media, Pahlavi declared, “Our aim is no longer just gathering in the streets; we intend to get ready to seize and hold city centres.”
After the protests began on 28 December, Iranian authorities initially called for “restraint” and promised to address grievances. However, as unrest persisted, officials adopted a harsher stance. Rights groups raised concerns that the authorities were intensifying a deadly crackdown during a 48-hour internet blackout. This was reported by the monitoring group Netblocks.
Reports of Violence and Casualties
Amnesty International reported it is examining claims of increased use of lethal force by security forces against protesters since Thursday. The Norway-based Iran Human Rights organisation stated that at least 51 people have lost their lives during the crackdown, cautioning that the actual toll may be higher. The group also released images purporting to show victims of the protests at Alghadir hospital in eastern Tehran, further substantiating reports of excessive and deadly force. Verified AFP footage additionally showed crowds in Tehran’s Saadatabad district chanting anti-government slogans, with vehicles signalling their support.
Official Response and International Reactions
Iranian authorities have reported the deaths of several security personnel during the ongoing unrest. Supreme Leader Khamenei has blamed “vandals” and accused the United States of encouraging the disturbances. State television broadcast funerals for fallen officers and aired footage of buildings, including a mosque, set ablaze. The Iranian army reiterated its commitment to defending national interests against those disrupting public order.
International leaders, including EU chief Ursula von der Leyen, have called on Iranian authorities to exercise restraint and have condemned violence against protesters. Internet disruptions have impacted daily life in Tehran, with one resident characterising it as “the price to pay before the victory of the people.”
