Protests in Iran have persisted despite an intensifying government crackdown and a near-total internet shutdown, with videos and eyewitness reports confirming violent clashes in multiple cities. The unrest, which began on December 28 following the collapse of the Iranian rial, has rapidly spread to over 100 cities and towns, with demonstrators demanding an end to clerical rule under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

This is not a protest. It is a revolution.Yes, Iran is looking at FREEDOM.January 2026 Iran. pic.twitter.com/CI4UXMd3lZ

— Masih Alinejad ????️ (@AlinejadMasih) January 10, 2026

Authorities have responded harshly. Iranian Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad declared that anyone participating in the protests would be considered an "enemy of God," a charge punishable by death. Reports from human rights groups indicate that more than 2,500 people have been arrested since the protests began, while the death toll from clashes between security forces and demonstrators has reached over 100, including both civilians and security personnel. Verified hospital sources in Tehran and Rasht describe overwhelmed emergency rooms and morgues struggling to handle casualties, many of whom died from direct gunshot wounds before receiving medical attention.

Despite these threats, demonstrators continued to rally in cities including Tehran, Mashhad, Rasht, and Tabriz. Videos verified by international media show protesters using bonfires, wheelie bins, and pots and pans for protection while clashing with security forces, with some footage showing vehicles set on fire and gunshots fired at crowds. In Tehran’s Gisha and Punak districts, demonstrators chanted slogans against Khamenei and in support of the pre-1979 monarchy, holding fireworks displays and marching through streets in defiance of the authorities.

January 11 and the protests in Iran are not slowing down. In Karaj, people are out chanting monarchist slogans. In Tehran’s Punak and Ketar districts, the crowds are massive, some say tens of thousands. Footage also shows IRGC thugs shooting at unarmed protestors. pic.twitter.com/dC1oURGIPy

— NOELREPORTS ???????? ???????? (@NOELreports) January 11, 2026

Exiled former Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has emerged as a vocal supporter of the protests, urging Iranians to continue demonstrations and organize to seize control of city centers. In a video message, Pahlavi praised the bravery of protesters, claimed the regime faced a shortage of loyal security forces, and encouraged citizens to act collectively for safety. He emphasized that the world, including US President Donald Trump, is watching and ready to support their efforts.

The US has signaled readiness to intervene if Iranian authorities continue violent repression. President Trump publicly warned that any further killings could provoke a strong response, while US Secretary of State Marco Rubio reiterated Washington’s support for Iranian demonstrators. Reports indicate that Trump was briefed on potential military options, including targeted strikes against Tehran-based sites linked to Iran’s internal security apparatus, though officials stressed there was no immediate threat to Iran.