January 12, 2026 l Reporter: Johnson
DUBAI/WASHINGTON — Iran is experiencing one of the deadliest protest crackdowns in recent history, with activist groups reporting that more than 500 people have been killed amid nationwide demonstrations against the government a toll that includes scores of protesters and members of security forces as U.S. President Donald Trump weighs possible responses, including non-military and military options.
According to figures compiled by the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) which collates reports from contacts inside and outside Iran at least 490 protesters and 48 members of security services have died since the unrest began more than two weeks ago, with more than 10,600 arrests reported nationwide.
The protests, which erupted initially over economic hardship and the plunge in the value of the Iranian rial, have quickly broadened into widespread anti-government demonstrations across multiple provinces. Iran’s clerical leadership has responded with a near-total internet blackout and heavy use of force, making independent verification of casualty figures difficult.
President Trump who has publicly warned Tehran against using violence on peaceful demonstrators has said the United States is considering a range of options in response, including cyber measures, expanded sanctions and potentially military strikes, though U.S. officials stress no final decision has been made.
Iran’s government has blamed external forces, including the United States and Israel, for fomenting unrest and dismissed claims of a high death toll as false. Iranian lawmakers, in turn, have threatened that Israeli and U.S. military bases in the region would be “legitimate targets” if Washington carries out strikes over the protests.
The worsening crisis has drawn international concern, with rights groups and foreign governments calling on Tehran to respect peaceful assembly and human rights, even as officials in Tehran maintain the unrest is being exploited by hostile powers.
Key details of the situation:
- More than 500 killed in widespread protests and crackdowns, according to HRANA and other rights organisations.
- Over 10,600 arrests reported amid the unrest.
- Iran has imposed a near-total internet blackout, hindering independent oversight.
- U.S. government weighing options, including sanctions, cyber measures and possible military responses.
- Tehran has threatened retaliation against U.S. and Israeli targets if military action is taken.
The situation remains fluid, with the international community closely monitoring developments and Iranian authorities maintaining a firm stance against foreign intervention.