Iran protests: 51 dead as US, Israel accused of fueling unrest
Iranian authorities have imposed a nationwide internet blackout as anti-regime protests enter their 13th day, with at least 51 people—including nine children—killed by security forces according to Norway-based Iran Human Rights. The protests, sparked by rising cost of living, have spread across multiple cities including Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz, and Qom, with demonstrators chanting against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Iran's Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the United States and Israel of "directly intervening" to transform peaceful protests into violent ones. US President Donald Trump warned Iran's leaders are "in big trouble" and threatened military strikes if peaceful protesters are killed. The US State Department dismissed Iran's accusations as "delusional."
Internet watchdog NetBlocks confirmed the shutdown is masking regime violence while Amnesty International said it aims to hide "grave human rights violations." Security forces have used rifles, shotguns with metal pellets, water cannon, and tear gas against largely peaceful protesters, according to joint statements from Amnesty and Human Rights Watch.
The movement represents the biggest challenge to the Islamic Republic since 2022-2023 protests sparked by Mahsa Amini's custody death. Counter-protests have also occurred, with state TV broadcasting images of thousands supporting authorities. Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei promised "decisive" punishment for "rioters," while the Revolutionary Guards called protecting the revolution its "red line."
Will international pressure and sanctions force Tehran to de-escalate, or will the internet blackout and deadly crackdown continue to silence dissent?