Iran Protests Surge as Citizens Defy Government Crackdown

Sun Jan 11 2026 21:46:48 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Despite a deadly government crackdown and a severe internet blackout, Iranian protesters continue to voice their dissent in cities across the nation, calling for an end to the regime led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei.

Protests in Iran have escalated over the past few days as citizens challenge government repression amidst reports of violence and casualties. Eyewitness accounts describe intense clashes between protesters and security forces, with calls for change resonating in over 100 cities. The government's response has included lethal force and a severe internet blackout aimed at stifling communication. Prominent figures, including U.S. leaders, have voiced support for the protestors as the situation remains tense.

Protesters in Iran defied a deadly government crackdown on Saturday night, taking to the streets despite reports suggesting hundreds of people have been killed or wounded by security forces in the past three days.

Verified videos and eyewitness accounts seen by the BBC appeared to show the government ramping up its response, amid an overarching internet blackout.

The country's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, declared on Saturday that anyone protesting would be labeled an enemy of God—an offense that carries the death penalty.

Since the protests erupted more than two weeks ago, hundreds are believed to have been killed or injured, with many more detained.

The protests initiated due to soaring inflation now call for an end to the clerical rule of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, spreading to over 100 cities nationwide. In response, the government has imposed an internet shutdown to disrupt communication among protestors.

Experts highlight that this shutdown is unprecedentedly severe, even more so than during previous protests, making access to information and reporting nearly impossible. Verified video footage reveals intense clashes between protesters and security forces in various cities, where demonstrators employ makeshift barricades against armed forces.

Amidst the chaos, international support has emerged, with U.S. officials, including President Trump, expressing readiness to assist in the pursuit of freedom for the Iranian people. Meanwhile, human rights organizations warn of escalating violence as casualties continue to rise, with many hospitals overwhelmed with injured individuals.

These protests are reminiscent of the previous uprising in 2022, sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini, which resulted in extensive violence and detentions in Iran.