Iran signals harsher crackdown as protests spread and death toll rises

Iran signals harsher crackdown as protests spread and death toll rises

Iran has signaled harsher crackdown as protests spread and death toll rises. File photo

January, 10 2026

TEHRAN (Web Desk): Iran signalled a harsher crackdown on protests as unrest spread nationwide, deaths rose to 65, and authorities blamed “terrorists” for the demonstrations.

Iranian authorities indicated they may intensify action against the biggest anti-government protests in years. The Revolutionary Guards said they would safeguard the governing system, as demonstrations continued across major cities.

Overnight, large crowds again took to the streets, chanting slogans against the Islamic Republic. Activists expressed concern that the crackdown is being stepped up under the cover of an internet blackout, limiting the flow of information.

The protests, now entering their second week, have become one of the toughest challenges for the authorities in recent years. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has shown defiance and blamed the United States for the unrest.

Despite an internet shutdown, new demonstrations were reported late Friday. Internet monitor Netblocks said, “Iran has now been offline for 48 hours”, raising fears that violence could go unseen.

According to the Iran Human Rights Activists News Agency, the death toll has reached 65. The report said protests occurred in 512 locations across 180 cities in all 31 provinces. It said 50 protesters, 14 security personnel, and one government-linked civilian were killed.

The report added that dozens were injured and 2,311 people were detained. Many injuries were caused by pellet shots and plastic bullets. Authorities have not issued official figures on casualties.

Amnesty International said it was reviewing “distressing reports that security forces have intensified their unlawful use of lethal force against protesters”, leading to more deaths and injuries.

Nobel Peace Prize winner Shirin Ebadi warned of a possible “massacre under the cover of a sweeping communications blackout” and said hundreds had been treated for eye injuries at a single Tehran hospital.

Protests were seen in Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz, Qom, and other cities. Reza Pahlavi urged people to expand demonstrations, saying, “Our goal is no longer just to take to the streets. The goal is to prepare to seize and hold city centres.”