Iran–US Tensions Escalate as Crackdown on Protests Pushes Death Toll Higher

 

Iran Warns US Against Intervention as Protest Deaths Continue to Rise

Iran has delivered a sharp warning to the United States against any form of military or covert intervention, as nationwide protests enter a critical phase and reports from human rights groups suggest a rapidly increasing death toll.

The warning comes amid intensified demonstrations across multiple Iranian cities, sparked initially by economic pressures but quickly evolving into broader calls for political change. As security forces tightened their response, international attention sharpened, particularly after former US President Donald Trump publicly stated that Washington was prepared to support Iranian protesters.

Death Toll Disputed, Crackdown Intensifies

Independent rights organizations report sharply different casualty figures, reflecting the difficulty of verifying information during a near-total internet shutdown imposed by Iranian authorities. US-based and European rights groups estimate that hundreds of people may have been killed since the unrest began, with thousands more detained. Activists warn these figures are likely incomplete due to restricted access to hospitals, morgues, and affected communities.

Iranian authorities have not released official casualty numbers, instead framing the unrest as violent riots orchestrated by hostile foreign actors. State officials say members of the security forces have also been killed during the unrest.

US Rhetoric Raises Regional Stakes

Tensions escalated after Trump said the United States was “ready to help” Iranians seeking freedom, prompting strong reactions from Tehran. Senior Iranian officials warned that any US attack would trigger retaliation against American military assets and interests across the Middle East, raising concerns of a wider regional confrontation.

Reports in US media indicate Washington has been reviewing a range of response options, from increased sanctions to cyber operations, though no official decision has been announced.

Government Adopts Harder Line at Home

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of fueling instability, alleging that armed groups were exploiting protests to damage public infrastructure. Authorities have announced mass arrests of what they describe as protest organizers, while judicial officials warned that participation or assistance could lead to severe charges under national security laws.

The government has also declared days of national mourning for security personnel killed during the unrest and called for pro-government rallies to denounce violence.

Protests Persist Despite Blackout

Despite the heavy security presence and communications blackout, demonstrations have continued in Tehran and other major cities. Videos and messages shared through satellite internet services show crowds chanting slogans, erecting roadblocks, and confronting security forces, underscoring the resilience of the protest movement.

Analysts say the current unrest represents one of the most serious challenges Iran’s leadership has faced in years, driven by economic crisis, political dissatisfaction, and heightened regional tensions.

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