Overview
- State television published a Martyrs Foundation tally of 3,117 fatalities from the protests that began December 28, saying 2,427 were classified as civilians and security forces considered “martyrs.”
- Rights groups report substantially higher tolls, with HRANA confirming 4,519 deaths and thousands more under review, while NetBlocks says a prolonged blackout is hindering independent verification.
- Street demonstrations have waned under heavy security, with HRANA logging at least 26,314 arrests and widespread reports of injuries as authorities press a crackdown on what they call terrorist-led riots.
- Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Iran would “fire back with everything we have” if attacked, IRGC leaders said they have a “finger on the trigger,” and President Trump threatened overwhelming retaliation if Iran targets him or kills protesters.
- Signs of internal strain persist, including reports of defections and a rights group’s claim that soldier Javid Khales was sentenced to death for refusing orders to shoot, which Iranian authorities have not publicly detailed.