On this matter, the Associated Press reported yesterday, January 11, citing the US-based human rights network HRANA.
According to the source, since January 8, the flow of information has been severely restricted due to the Iranian government completely shutting down the internet across the country.
The blackout has lasted for more than 70 hours. Obtaining information from the country is primarily being done via the Starlink satellite communication system.
According to it, the Iranian government is using drones for the first time during the process of suppressing protests, identifying individuals expressing discontent through aerial surveillance. Therefore, it is currently impossible to determine the exact number of those killed and arrested.
According to media reports, the actions of security structures are becoming increasingly ruthless. These protests are sharply different from previous ones and were unexpected for the government.
In some cases, even hospitals are not safe: wounded protesters can be taken away by security forces, and in many cases, the bodies of the deceased are not being returned to family members.
Mass protest rallies across Iran have been ongoing since December 28, 2025, that is, for 15 days now. Despite the internet shutdown and harsh measures by security forces, thousands of people are taking to the streets in Tehran and other major cities. Protesters are banging pots and pans, chanting slogans like "Death to Khamenei," and car drivers are honking their horns in support.
On January 10, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps threatened to forcefully suppress the protests. State Security stated it is a "red line," and the army announced it would use force to protect national interests, strategic infrastructure, and public property.
US President Donald Trump expressed readiness on January 10 to help Iranian protesters.
In response, the Iranian leadership stated that if a military attack is organized by the US or Israel with the aim of supporting the protests, retaliatory strikes will be delivered.
The Speaker of the Iranian Parliament stated at an emergency session on January 11 that US military centers and maritime traffic would become legitimate targets. Following these statements, it was reported that Israel has moved to a high level of combat readiness.
Furthermore, Trump today, January 12, during an interaction with journalists, said that if Tehran attacks US military or commercial facilities, Iran will face unprecedented powerful strikes.
According to Trump's words, if Iran carries out such an attack, the US will respond with such force that Tehran will find it hard to believe. He emphasized that Washington has very powerful and decisive measures at its disposal.
