London – Protests against the Iranian government have entered a third week, marked by escalating violence and a growing number of arrests and deaths. According to data released Monday by the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 646 people have died during 16 days of unrest across the country.
Rising Toll and Widespread Protests
HRANA reports that at least 10,721 people have been arrested in 606 locations across all 31 Iranian provinces and 187 cities. Among those killed, the group states, are 505 protesters and nine children. It is important to note that ABC News has not independently verified these numbers, and the Iranian government has not released its own official death toll.
State-aligned Iranian media reports more than 100 security forces have been killed in the unrest. HRANA, however, reports 133 military and security personnel deaths, along with one prosecutor.
International Response and Potential Escalation
The unrest has drawn international attention, with U.S. President Donald Trump announcing a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran. This action follows repeated warnings against the use of force to suppress the protests. “Effective immediately, any Country doing business with the Islamic Republic of Iran will pay a Tariff of 25% on any and all business being done with the United States of America,” Trump stated in a social media post Monday.
China, a key trading partner with Iran, responded through Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning, stating, “There are no winners in a tariff war,” and affirming China’s commitment to safeguarding its interests. China also expressed support for “Iran in maintaining national stability” and opposition to interference in internal affairs.
Trump’s national security team is scheduled to meet Tuesday to discuss potential intervention options. White House press secretary Karoline Leavitt indicated that all options, including military action, remain on the table, though she affirmed that diplomacy remains the president’s first choice.
The State Department has urged U.S. citizens to leave Iran, citing escalating protests and security measures, and advising travelers to prepare for continued internet outages and consider departing by land through Armenia or Türkiye.
Internet Shutdown and Government Response
A nationwide internet shutdown in Iran has been ongoing for 108 hours, according to online monitoring group NetBlocks. The Iranian government, led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has framed the protests as driven by “rioters” and “terrorists” sponsored by foreign nations, including the U.S. and Israel. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi described the protests as a “terrorist war” while speaking to foreign diplomats.
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has called on Trump to intervene in support of the protesters, urging them to overwhelm security forces and appealing for U.S. assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many people have been reported killed in the protests?
According to data published by HRANA on Monday, at least 646 people have died during the protests. HRANA reports 505 protesters and nine children were among the dead.
What has been the response from the U.S. government?
U.S. President Donald Trump announced a 25% tariff on any country doing business with Iran and indicated that all options, including military action, are being considered.
What is the status of internet access in Iran?
A nationwide internet shutdown has been in place for 108 hours, according to NetBlocks, as of Tuesday.
As the situation continues to unfold, it remains to be seen whether the protests will lead to significant political change or whether the Iranian government will be able to suppress the unrest. What role will international actors play in shaping the outcome of this crisis?
