Iran Protests Persist as Trump Threatens Further Intervention

A significant wave of protests in Iran continues amidst escalating tensions. Demonstrations sparked by the country’s struggling economy have entered their ninth consecutive day, prompting renewed threats of U.S. intervention from President Donald Trump.

Recent Protests Across Iran

Protests have erupted in numerous cities, including Tehran, Fars, Ilam, North Khorasan, and Semnan. Human rights activists report that these demonstrations have spread across 26 of Iran’s 31 provinces.

As of Monday, at least 19 protesters have died, along with one member of the security forces. Videos circulating online depict large crowds demanding change, highlighting the unrest in cities such as Yasuj and Sari, where slogans like “Freedom, freedom, freedom” were chanted.

• Protest Locations:
  • Tehran
  • Fars
  • Ilam
  • North Khorasan
  • Semnan
  • Yasuj
  • Sari
• Protest Numbers:
  • 19 protesters killed
  • 1 security force member killed
  • 26 provinces affected

Trump’s Warning and Iranian Leadership Response

On a recent flight with reporters, Trump cautioned that the Iranian authorities would face significant consequences if more protesters die. He stated, “We’re watching it very closely. If they start killing people like they have in the past, I think they’re going to get hit very hard by the United States.”

In response to the unrest, Iranian parliamentary speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf acknowledged the “legitimate demands” of protesters. However, he warned that any attempts by foreign agents to exploit the situation would be met with a strong response. His statements echoed those from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran’s Supreme Leader, who called for “rioters” to be dealt with decisively.

Accusations Amidst Unrest

The Iranian foreign ministry accused Israel of trying to erode national unity. This accusation follows Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s show of support for the Iranian people’s struggle. Iranian officials describe such statements as incitements to violence, especially in light of the tensions following a 12-day conflict last June involving U.S. and Israeli airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities.

Underlying Causes of the Protests

The recent protests were initially ignited on December 28 when shopkeepers in Tehran expressed outrage over the plummeting value of the Iranian rial, which continues to decline amid a challenging economic landscape. Currently, the rial has depreciated to historic lows, while inflation has surged to around 40% due to ongoing sanctions related to Iran’s nuclear program.

The protests showcase a growing discontent among various segments of Iranian society, including university students who have joined the cause. Many are voicing their demands for reform and change in a country where public dissent draws significant risk.

As these protests unfold, the global community watches closely, particularly in light of potential international implications. The situation remains fluid, and further developments may emerge in the coming days.