Overview
- Human-rights groups report roughly 490–500 people killed in about two weeks, with accounts of security forces firing on demonstrators and named victims including students and a former bodybuilding champion.
- Authorities have detained about 10,000 people as widespread internet and phone disruptions continue across the country.
- Demonstrations have spread to more than 180 cities, with particularly severe repression reported in Kurdish and Loristani areas.
- The government shifted from small cash stipends of about $7 per month and a central bank shake-up to large-scale force, while officials claim foreign provocation.
- International concern is rising, with the UN criticizing excessive force, U.S. commanders briefing President Trump on potential options, and Brent crude jumping over 5% to around $63 a barrel.