TEHRAN, Iran (BBC) — Monday, January 12, 2026
A wave of anti-government protests continues to rock cities across Iran for a second week, facing an increasingly violent crackdown by security forces that has left hundreds dead, according to human rights groups.
The demonstrations, sparked by the death of a young woman in police custody, have evolved into a broad movement challenging the country’s clerical establishment. Videos posted on social media today showed security forces firing tear gas and live ammunition into crowds of unarmed protesters in Tehran, Isfahan, and other major cities. Internet access remains severely restricted across the country, making it difficult to verify casualty figures and share information.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) estimated on Sunday that at least 572 people have been killed since the protests began, including dozens of security personnel. The group also reported that over 10,600 individuals have been detained. The Iranian government has not provided official casualty figures but has labeled the protesters as “rioters” backed by foreign enemies.
In Washington, President Donald Trump told reporters that Iran had “called” and proposed negotiations to de-escalate the situation. However, he warned that his administration is weighing all options, including potential military strikes, if the violence against civilians continues. “They want to talk, but they are killing their own people in the streets. It’s a terrible situation,” President Trump said.
International leaders have condemned the use of lethal force against demonstrators and called for an immediate end to the violence. The United Nations Human Rights Council has announced an emergency session to address the deteriorating situation.
