DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Tensions are high in Iran as the judiciary chief, Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, announced plans for swift trials and potential executions of those involved in recent protests. Reports suggest that the security forces’ crackdown has resulted in over 2,570 deaths, making this one of the deadliest periods of unrest in decades, reminiscent of the upheaval surrounding Iran’s 1979 Islamic Revolution.
U.S. President Donald Trump has warned Iran against these actions. He stated that the U.S. might respond strongly to the killings of peaceful protesters. Just months earlier, tensions escalated when Israel conducted military operations against Iranian nuclear sites.
On a recent solemn day, Iran held a mass funeral for 300 security personnel who lost their lives during the protests, with thousands attending and showing their support for the government. Among the mourners were families holding Iranian flags and photos of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
Many citizens, however, continue to live in fear. Street security remains tight, with plainclothes officers present in communities. One mother, shopping for groceries, expressed her unease: “We have heard many are killed and many are injured… Now peace has been restored, but I’m scared to send my children to school again.”
Eyewitness Ahmadreza Tavakoli described a protest he attended, noting the shocking use of firearms by security forces against unarmed civilians. “The people do not have guns. Only the security forces have guns,” he remarked, highlighting the stark power imbalance.
Mohseni-Ejei emphasized the need for urgency in handling the protest cases, stating that delays would lessen their impact. This statement directly contrasts with Trump’s warning about the consequences of executions. The complexity of the situation has not gone unnoticed, as some diplomats express concerns that military action in the region could lead to devastating consequences.
Activists have sought ways to circumvent an internet shutdown imposed by the Iranian government. Recently, Starlink has provided free satellite internet service in Iran, which activists like Mehdi Yahyanejad have been utilizing to communicate beyond the country’s borders. However, reports indicate that authorities are actively searching for Starlink dishes, as satellite technology remains illegal.
The Human Rights Activists News Agency reports a rising toll, with over 18,100 people arrested. They highlight the struggle to obtain accurate numbers due to communication disruptions. Access to independent assessments remains challenging, leaving many uncertain about the full scale of the crisis.
As the situation develops, the actions and responses from both Iranian authorities and the international community will be critical to watch. The echoes of past protests linger, creating a complex backdrop for today’s unrest.
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Donald Trump, Iran, Iran government, Protests and demonstrations, General news, International News, AP Top News, Politics, Internet, Funerals and memorial services, Ali Khamenei, World news
