Overview
- Madonna used Instagram on Jan. 15–16 to declare support for Iranians, saying "I stand with them" and calling to "FREE IRAN."
- Nationwide protests persist over economic collapse, inflation, and political repression, with demonstrators calling for change.
- Iranian authorities have deployed force and tightened internet access, and the judiciary has threatened executions of protesters.
- Death tolls remain unverified, with reports ranging from thousands to 12,000–20,000 according to CBS sources cited in coverage.
- Coverage also describes President Donald Trump weighing military action over civilian deaths as regional voices urge caution.