Nationwide demonstrations challenging Iran’s theocratic government have persisted for over two weeks, with protesters filling the streets of the capital and the second-largest city until early Sunday. Activists reported that the violence surrounding the protests has resulted in the deaths of at least 116 individuals.
As internet access in Iran remains restricted and phone communication disrupted, observing the protests from outside the country has become more challenging. The death toll from the demonstrations has risen, and around 2,600 people have been detained, as reported by the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency. Concerns exist among international observers that the information blackout may empower hardliners within Iran’s security forces to launch a severe crackdown, despite warnings from President Trump indicating his readiness to intervene to safeguard peaceful demonstrators.
Videos circulated from Iran, likely transmitted via Starlink satellite technology, depicted demonstrators assembling in Tehran’s Punak neighborhood. Streets were cordoned off by authorities, protesters illuminated the area with their mobile phones, some pounded on metal objects, and fireworks were set off. Additional footage captured peaceful marches and car horns blaring in solidarity.
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, protests in the capital have been characterized by sporadic, brief, and fluid gatherings due to the heavy security presence and mounting pressure. Reports indicated the presence of surveillance drones and security forces monitoring protest locations closely.
In Mashhad, Iran’s second-largest city located northeast of Tehran, videos showed protesters clashing with security forces, with flaming debris obstructing the streets. Mashhad houses the Imam Reza shrine, a significant site in Shiite Islam.
Protests also erupted in Kerman, southeast of Tehran. Iranian state television showcased calm areas in several cities on Sunday morning, omitting Tehran and Mashhad. Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi urged demonstrators to join the protests, with some expressing support for the shah, though it remains unclear if this indicates backing for Pahlavi or a desire to revert to pre-1979 revolution times.
Images of fires, celebrations, and solidarity gestures among protesters in Tehran have been circulating widely as demonstrations in Iran continue to escalate.