Protests in Iran have intensified, with the government employing severe measures to suppress dissent. The Iranian regime views the protests as a proto-revolution and is determined to crush them completely. According to the Institute for the Study of War, Iranian officials have labeled protesters as "terrorists" and are using unprecedented brutality to quell the unrest. Reports indicate that the death toll from the protests ranges from 2,000 to 20,000, surpassing previous protest waves.
The protests began in late December 2025, triggered by deteriorating economic conditions. Merchants and shopkeepers in Tehran initiated the movement, which quickly spread across the country. The regime has responded with nationwide internet shutdowns and a massive deployment of security forces. Security personnel are patrolling streets, and there are reports of security forces using machine guns against crowds. The regime's crackdown has led to the arrest of over 10,000 individuals.
The Iranian government is also dealing with increased militant activity in border regions, particularly from Kurdish and Baloch groups. These groups have carried out attacks on Iranian military sites, further straining the regime's security forces. The regime is coordinating with Turkey and Iraq to contain cross-border militant activity.
Despite the regime's efforts, resistance continues in several cities, including Shiraz and Esfahan. Some Iranians are fighting back against security forces, using knives and machetes. The ongoing protests and militant activities pose significant challenges to the Iranian regime's stability.
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