Overview
- Verified footage shows large crowds in Tehran, Mashhad and other cities chanting against Ali Khamenei and invoking Reza Pahlavi.
- Internet watchdogs report a near‑national shutdown since Thursday night, hampering communication and independent reporting.
- Iran Human Rights says at least 45 protesters, including minors, have been killed, with hundreds injured and more than 2,000 arrests.
- In a televised address, Khamenei branded demonstrators “vandals,” accused the United States of fomenting unrest, and vowed the system will not retreat.
- President Donald Trump warned the U.S. would “strike very hard” if killings escalate, as Turkish Airlines canceled Tehran flights and European governments urged restraint.