Iran protests lose momentum amid tight security
The Iran protests death toll remains a global concern even as street unrest appears to be easing across the country. After weeks of intense demonstrations, no fresh videos or reports have emerged due to a prolonged communication blackout. The Iranian government imposed the shutdown days ago, severely limiting independent verification. Meanwhile, heavy security deployment has restored an uneasy calm in major cities, including Tehran. However, international observers remain cautious, as restrictions continue despite fewer visible protests.
Thousands killed as internet shutdown blocks verification
According to Norway-based rights group Iran Human Rights (IHR), at least 3,428 protesters have been verified as killed by Iranian security forces. However, the group warned that the real Iran protests death toll could be significantly higher. Other estimates suggest more than 5,000 deaths, while some activists claim the figure may reach 20,000. The internet blackout, now exceeding 180 hours, has made independent confirmation nearly impossible. Although Iran has allowed limited international phone calls, messaging services and global internet access remain blocked.
Trump comments as hardline cleric calls for executions
As tensions appeared to ease, former US President Donald Trump claimed Iran had halted executions of detained protesters. He thanked Iranian leaders for cancelling hangings of more than 800 detainees. However, Trump did not clarify how he verified the claim. In contrast, a senior hardline cleric sharply escalated rhetoric. Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami publicly called for executions of protesters and directly threatened Trump. He accused demonstrators of acting on behalf of Israel and the US, warning of “hard revenge.”
Exiled prince urges renewed protests despite calm
Despite the slowdown, Iran’s exiled prince Reza Pahlavi called for fresh nationwide demonstrations. He urged citizens to raise their voices against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s regime. His earlier appeals had fueled the initial momentum of the protests. Meanwhile, Netblocks confirmed that Iran’s blackout has surpassed the duration of the 2019 shutdown. Although some phone services resumed, digital isolation continues. As a result, uncertainty surrounds whether calm will last or unrest will reignite.
