Unyielding Voices: Iran's Protesters Face Violent Repression

Sun Jan 11 2026 17:53:05 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Despite a brutal crackdown that has left many casualties, Iranians continue to protest against inflation and authoritarian rule. Eyewitness accounts and verified videos reveal escalating violence, as external figures, including US politicians, express support for the protestors.

In a defiant display against government oppression, protesters across Iran have taken to the streets amid a violent crackdown that has reportedly caused numerous deaths and injuries. Despite an extensive internet blackout aimed at stifling communication and organizing efforts, videos and eyewitness reports highlight the intensity of clashes between demonstrators and security forces. The ongoing unrest, sparked by surging inflation and dissatisfaction with the ruling clerics, has drawn international attention, with U.S. officials voicing their support for the movement. As casualties mount, calls for change and justice resonate through the nation.

Protesters in Iran defied a deadly government crackdown on Saturday night, taking to the streets despite reports suggesting hundreds of people have been killed or wounded by security forces in the past three days.

Verified videos and eyewitness accounts seen by the BBC appear to show the government ramping up its response, continuing an overarching internet blackout.

The country's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, stated that anyone protesting would be considered an 'enemy of God'—an offense that carries the death penalty. Hundreds of protesters are believed to have died or been injured since protests began over two weeks ago, with many more detained.

Triggered by soaring inflation, the protests have spread across more than 100 cities and towns nationwide. Protesters are now voicing demands for the end of the Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's clerical rule.

The government has imposed an extensive internet shutdown to control the situation. Iran's data infrastructure remains tightly controlled by the state and security authorities, allowing limited access to the global internet.

During this round of protests, authorities have not only cut access to the worldwide internet but also severely restricted domestic intranet access, a situation experts say is far more stringent than previous shutdowns.

Amidst it all, notable figures have voiced their support for the protesters. U.S. President Donald Trump announced on social media, 'Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!' Reports indicated Trump had been briefed on military options.

Amnesty International has reported intensified unlawful use of lethal force against demonstrators since Thursday. Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper stated that voices against Khamenei's government should not face threats of violence.

As dawn broke on Sunday, the exiled Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran's last shah, encouraged citizens to continue their protests but advised caution.