Fri Jan 09 01:40:48 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Iranian Protests Escalate Amid Internet Blackout and Rising Death Toll

The Story

Protests in Iran intensified on Thursday, January 8, 2026, challenging the authority of the clerical leadership. Triggered initially by economic grievances following the rial’s plunge on December 28, 2025, the demonstrations have spread nationwide and grown in scale. The government’s response has been met with accusations of violence and a near-total internet shutdown. International figures like US President Donald Trump have issued warnings, while human rights groups report a rising death toll among protesters.

The unrest marks the most significant challenge to the Iranian government since the 2022-2023 protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini. With calls for further action from exiled opposition figures and Kurdish groups, the situation remains highly volatile and unpredictable.

Key Points

  • Nationwide protests intensified across Iran, originating from economic concerns triggered on December 28, 2025.
  • Authorities imposed a nationwide internet blackout to suppress the demonstrations.
  • Human rights groups allege security forces killed at least 45 protesters, including 8 minors.
  • US President Donald Trump threatened “severe action” if Iran “start killing people”.
  • Opposition figures, including Reza Pahlavi, called for further protests, and Kurdish groups initiated a general strike.
  • Demonstrators are chanting slogans against the Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, and some are calling for the return of the Pahlavi dynasty.
  • Final exams at Tehran’s Amir Kabir University have been postponed.

Key Takeaways

  • Economic instability appears to be a significant catalyst for the current wave of protests.
  • The Iranian government is resorting to increasingly repressive measures, including internet shutdowns and alleged violence against protesters, to maintain control.
  • The protests are garnering international attention and condemnation, potentially leading to increased pressure on the Iranian government.
  • The scale and intensity of the protests suggest a deep-seated dissatisfaction with the current regime, reminiscent of the 2022-2023 Mahsa Amini protests.
  • The involvement of opposition figures and regional groups indicates a potential for the protests to escalate and destabilize the region.

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