Iran Protests Escalate: Death Toll and Arrests Rise Amidst Warnings from US and Israel
Anti-government protests in Iran continue to mount in intensity and scale, with the death toll rising to over 500, according to various human rights groups, while the Iranian police report 'significant' arrests. The unrest, which started on December 28 due to soaring living costs, has seen over 570 protests taking place across the country, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency. The Iranian Parliament has issued threats to the U.S. military in response to U.S. President Donald Trump's threats of military strikes.
The Origin and Spread of the Protests
The protests initiated as a response to the country's worsening economic situation and quickly turned against the clerical rulers who have been governing Iran since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The movement has rapidly spread across Iran and to emigrant Iranians in cities across Europe. Anti-government protests have continued for the 13th consecutive day.
The Rising Death Toll and Arrests
The death toll due to the protests continues to rise, with varying reports estimating the number of deaths to be between 192 to over 540. The Human Rights Activists News Agency reports more than 500 protesters killed and 2600 arrested, while the Deutsche Welle states that the toll has crossed 540. However, the South China Morning Post reported that the death toll stood at 35 with 1,200 detained.
The Government's Response and International Reactions
Iran's President Massoud Pezeshkian is expected to address the economic situation and the 'people's demands' in an interview to be aired on Sunday. Meanwhile, Iran has warned the US against any 'miscalculation' and threatened retaliation. Tehran has also warned Israel against any intervention, with the demonstrations entering their third week and fatalities mounting.
The U.S. and Israel have been weighing their options regarding Iran's situation, with President Trump potentially considering a 'strong' response to the escalating unrest. However, the CIA warned that the Iranian regime still appears solid and that any U.S. intervention could potentially bolster the regime's strength.
Conclusion
The unrest shows no signs of abating, with protesters defying the government crackdown. The Iranian government has declared a national resistance march
for Monday. The international community watches closely as the situation in Iran continues to evolve, with the death toll and number of arrests continuing to rise.