Iran protests
Protesters gather in front of shuttered shops in Kermanshah, Iran, on Thursday night during an anti‑government demonstration amid debris and fires. AFP/Getty Images

Flames engulfed government buildings in the Iranian capital as furious protesters clashed with security forces. Simultaneously, Iran's top military officials issued stark warnings of pre-emptive strikes against the United States.

This volatile mix of domestic unrest and international brinkmanship unfolded in real-time, leaving families devastated by mounting casualties and a nation increasingly isolated from the outside world.

Military's Aggressive Stance

Iran's army chief, Major General Amir Hatami, delivered a forceful speech to military students, vowing to 'cut off the hand of any aggressor.' He explicitly accused the United States and Israel of interfering in Iran's internal affairs and warned that escalating rhetoric would be met with a 'decisive response.' T

he Express reported that Hatami emphasised Iran's armed forces' readiness, hinting at the possibility of pre-emptive strikes should threats materialise.

These declarations followed days after US President Donald Trump cautioned Iran against harming its own citizens, stating the US was 'watching closely.' Fox News detailed how Hatami's statements directly challenged Trump's stance, escalating fears of potential military confrontation.

Nationwide Protests Ignite

Initially sparked by soaring food prices and a depreciating national currency, the protests have evolved into a widespread national uprising. Demonstrations commenced on 28 December 2025, fuelled by rampant inflation, international sanctions, and the lingering impact of the previous year's conflict with Israel. The protests has spread to 310 locations across 28 provinces, encompassing major cities like Tehran and remote rural areas.

Shopkeepers observed widespread closures of bazaars in solidarity, while students and labourers joined chants of 'Death to the dictator!' and rallied for the potential return of exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. Live updates from CNN documented crowds blocking roads and defying enforced curfews, marking the twelfth day of sustained unrest.

Internet Blackouts Stifle Dissent

As darkness fell on Thursday, Iran experienced a widespread internet blackout, exacerbating the already tense atmosphere. Advocacy groups, including NetBlocks and CloudFlare, confirmed the implementation of state-imposed restrictions, disrupting international communications and silencing social media platforms. The shutdown aimed to hinder coordination among protesters who had planned gatherings for 8 p.m. following a call from Pahlavi.

According to the Express, chants of 'Death to the Islamic Republic!' could be heard from windows before internet connections were severed. The Guardian reported similar tactics being employed to suppress the spread of information, leaving families unable to connect with loved ones amidst the escalating chaos.

Fires Erupt at Regime Symbols

In Tehran's Haft Hoz district, a government building was engulfed in flames on Thursday, with onlookers reportedly clapping and chanting 'Long live the Shah.' Footage circulating on social media depicted vehicles associated with security forces burning in Nazy Abad, as young protesters expressed their outrage. The Express described the scenes as 'extraordinary,' noting that millions had responded to calls for protest.

Similar fire incidents were reported in Mashhad and Babol, where initially peaceful marches turned violent. Verified videos from the BBC showed large gatherings in Tehran, with protesters demanding the overthrow of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Mounting Casualties and Detentions

The human toll of the protests has been significant. Human rights organisations report at least 42 deaths, including protesters, children, and security personnel. Over 2,270 arrests have been officially documented, with stampedes and violent clashes contributing to the grim tally. In Lordegan, two security personnel were killed, and 30 others were injured. A police colonel was reportedly stabbed near Tehran.

Reuters cited an early death toll of at least 25, while CNN indicated the number had risen to 45 by mid-week. In Kurdish regions, forces reportedly used tear gas and pellets, with demonstrators claiming live ammunition was also deployed, according to The Guardian.

Global Reactions and Expert Analysis

Trump reiterated his warnings, stating that Iran would 'pay hell' for any violence against peaceful demonstrators. He expressed admiration for the 'brave people' but refrained from formal meetings with Pahlavi, opting to observe the unfolding events. The New York Times reported on Khamenei's dismissal of the protests, characterising them as vandalism intended to 'please' Trump.

Analysts have expressed concern that Iran is approaching a critical tipping point. The Institute for the Study of War noted the expansion of unrest into Kurdish provinces, suggesting potential fragility of the regime. Euronews quoted experts who fear that Trump's precedent from the Venezuela raid could embolden further US military action, as reported by the Los Angeles Times. Meanwhile, Al Jazeera highlighted claims from a senior Iranian judge alleging orchestration of the protests by the US and Israel.

A Nation on the Precipice

As Khamenei prepares to address the nation, Reuters reported that the regime is offering dialogue on economic grievances while simultaneously intensifying its crackdown.

For ordinary Iranian families, the situation represents a period of agonising uncertainty, marked by the loss of loved ones and an unclear future. As the protests continue, international calls for restraint persist, yet the flames of dissent show no sign of abating.