Protests continued in Iran on Friday night, as shown in online videos, despite the government’s warning of a crackdown following the shutdown of internet services and communication lines. The demonstrations, which began in late December due to economic issues, have evolved into a significant challenge to the Iranian government.
State media has labeled the protesters as “terrorists,” potentially setting the stage for a forceful response, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s promise to support peaceful demonstrators. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized the protesters for allegedly seeking support from Trump, urging them to focus on their own country’s affairs.
Government officials in Iran have vowed severe punishment for the protesters, with reports indicating a rising death toll. International leaders, including German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron, have condemned the violence against the demonstrators and called for Iran to respect freedom of expression.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi has urged Western governments to denounce Iran’s leadership, criticizing their brutal approach to handling protests. Trump has threatened military action against Iran if the protesters are harmed, emphasizing a strong stance against any violence towards civilians.
Despite the government’s efforts to restrict communication and suppress the protests, videos shared online show ongoing demonstrations in various parts of Iran. The public defiance, including calls for the return of the shah, indicates deep-seated anger over economic hardships and political repression.
Rights groups report dozens of casualties and numerous detentions amid the unrest. The opposition leader, Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, has called for international support for the protesters, accusing the Iranian regime of using violence to quell dissent.
The situation remains tense as Iranians continue to defy government warnings and take to the streets to demand change. The international community closely monitors the developments in Iran, urging for a peaceful resolution to the escalating crisis.