Iran’s government has acknowledged the deaths of protesters during ongoing anti-government demonstrations, claiming the situation is now “under total control.” The protests, which have persisted for over two weeks, have resulted in a significant death toll, prompting heightened tensions between Iran and the United States.
Reports indicate that both Iranian officials and U.S. President Donald Trump have exchanged threats and overtures. Trump stated that Iranian officials contacted him, expressing a desire to negotiate following his warnings regarding military intervention if the regime continues to harm protesters. He commented, “The leaders of Iran called yesterday… They want to negotiate,” but added that the U.S. might need to act before any meeting takes place.
In an unusual move, state-controlled media in Iran broadcast footage showing numerous casualties at a morgue in the suburb of Kahrizak, located south of Tehran. The video, widely circulated online, displayed dozens of bodies wrapped in black bags, while mourners searched for their loved ones. A reporter from state television noted that while some deceased may have been involved in violence, “the majority of them are ordinary people, and their families are ordinary people as well.”
The Iranian government has not confirmed any direct communication with the Trump administration. However, Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi claimed that the protests had been brought under control, attributing the unrest to external influences, particularly the United States. He stated, “The situation is now under total control,” as state media showcased pro-government demonstrations across the country.
Human rights organizations have reported a staggering death toll, with estimates suggesting that at least 544 people have died, including 483 protesters and 47 security personnel. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) confirmed that unrest had erupted in 186 cities throughout Iran’s 31 provinces. The Center for Human Rights in Iran (CHRI) has asserted that hundreds of protesters have been killed during the ongoing internet blackout, describing it as a massacre.
In a statement, the Iran Human Rights (IHR) organization claimed to have verified at least 192 deaths, though they suggested the real figure might exceed 2,000. They noted that unverified reports indicated that several hundred individuals had been killed, and more than 2,600 protesters had been arrested. Furthermore, HRANA estimates that over 10,000 people have been detained amid the ongoing unrest.
As the Iranian regime grapples with international scrutiny and internal dissent, it has threatened severe consequences for protesters. In response to Trump’s warnings, Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared for both conflict and dialogue with the United States. He also indicated that internet service could be restored in coordination with security forces, although no specific timeline was provided.
The situation in Iran continues to evolve, with both sides maintaining a precarious balance between confrontation and negotiation, while the humanitarian impact of the protests becomes increasingly dire.