Iranian authorities have acknowledged that about 2,000 people died in recent nationwide protests. The figure includes both demonstrators and security personnel. An official told Reuters the deaths resulted from actions by “terrorists.” He did not provide a detailed breakdown.
This marks the first time Tehran has admitted such a high Iran protests death toll. The unrest began over severe economic hardship. Soaring inflation, currency collapse, and job losses fueled public anger. Analysts call it the biggest internal threat to Iran’s leadership since 2023.
In response, the US escalated pressure. President Donald Trump announced 25% tariffs on imports from any country trading with Iran. He also warned that military action remains an option. “We are locked and loaded,” he said earlier this month.
Iran has not publicly reacted to the tariff threat. However, China—its top oil buyer—criticized the move. Other key partners like Turkey, Iraq, and India could also face economic pain. Iran’s economy is already strained by years of sanctions.
Despite the violence, Iran’s security elite remains unified. This cohesion has helped the regime survive past uprisings. Now, leaders use a dual approach. They acknowledge economic grievances but blame foreign powers for the chaos.
Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani said, “We see both protesters and security forces as our children.” She added that Iran will keep listening to public concerns—even if some “hijacked” the protests.
International concern is growing fast. UN Human Rights Chief Volker Turk called the crackdown “horrifying.” He demanded an end to violence and the restoration of internet access. Authorities have shut down most online services for days.
Turk also rejected labeling peaceful protesters as “terrorists.” He said such rhetoric justifies unjustified violence. Meanwhile, rights groups report far higher casualties. Iran Human Rights confirmed 648 deaths, including nine minors. But they warn the real Iran protests death toll could exceed 6,000.
Hospitals appear overwhelmed, according to witnesses. Some report treating children among the wounded. Information remains scarce due to the communications blackout.
Regional leaders urge calm. Qatar’s foreign ministry warned that any US-Iran escalation would be “catastrophic.” Doha previously helped de-escalate tensions after Iran struck a US base in June.
Europe is also alarmed. German Chancellor Friedrich Merz suggested Iran’s government may be nearing its end. Tehran dismissed his comments as hypocritical.
As protests continue, ordinary Iranians face economic despair and political repression. With Washington threatening force—and Tehran refusing to yield—the crisis shows no sign of ending soon.
