Protests have been ongoing in Iran for nearly two weeks, with the government acknowledging the demonstrations as the country remains isolated from the rest of the world.
Due to internet shutdowns and severed phone lines, monitoring the protests against the Iranian government from abroad has become increasingly challenging. The death toll in the protests has risen to a minimum of 65 people, with over 2,300 individuals detained, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency.
Iranian state TV is highlighting security force casualties while asserting control over the nation. Despite warnings from the US, Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has hinted at an impending crackdown.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for the Iranian people on the social media platform X. Additionally, the US State Department cautioned against underestimating President Trump, emphasizing that his statements should be taken seriously.
Saturday marked the beginning of the workweek in Iran, with reports indicating that many schools and universities conducted online classes. State TV in Iran frequently broadcasts a powerful orchestral piece by Iranian composer Majid Entezami, commemorating Iran’s liberation of Khorramshahr during the Iran-Iraq war, alongside pro-government demonstrations.
Despite official reports of calm in most cities at night, a verified online video showed demonstrations in northern Tehran’s Saadat Abad area, with a large crowd visible. Surveillance footage released by the semi-official Fars news agency captured scenes of unrest in Isfahan, including protestors engaging in violence.
Reports emerged of three Basij force members being killed in Gachsaran and various other security personnel losing their lives in different regions. State television aired footage of a funeral in Qom, demonstrating the impact of the protests across the country.
The ongoing protests have led to fires in Tehran, with thousands of Iranians taking to the streets in opposition to the ruling regime. The death toll from the uprising has reached at least 65 people.
