Iran’s judiciary has ordered a firm crackdown on unrest sweeping the country, refusing to show leniency toward what it calls rioters, even as officials say peaceful protest remains a right. The warning comes amid growing demonstrations, rising deaths, and sharp threats from US President Donald Trump.
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Iran has been hit by a wave of mass protests prompted by an enduring economic crisis and the extreme volatility of the national currency.
The unrest has been cheered by Israel’s Mossad… pic.twitter.com/dWzjtNMgmQ
— RT_India (@RT_India_news) January 2, 2026
However, judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei instructed prosecutors across Iran to act decisively against those accused of creating instability. He stressed that authorities would distinguish between demonstrators raising grievances and groups charged with violence, but said those responsible for unrest would face strict punishment.
Furthermore, protests have spread rapidly, reaching at least 45 cities across 23 provinces. What began as economic anger over high prices and declining living standards has increasingly taken on political demands. Iran’s economy has been strained by heavy sanctions, a weakened currency, and high inflation, adding to public frustration.
After Trump’s threat toward Iran, Tehran’s Supreme National Security Council convened an emergency late-night meeting to limit protests with reduced force and brace for potential strikes. Officials privately say the Islamic Republic is now in “survival mode.”
Some protesters in… pic.twitter.com/YnxA0GDt6D— Major Sammer Pal Toorr (Infantry Combat Veteran) (@samartoor3086) January 4, 2026
Officials say at least 12 people, including security personnel, have been killed in clashes since late December. Intelligence units reported the seizure of weapons, ammunition, and materials used to make improvised explosive devices at a suspected hideout in Tehran.
President Trump warned Tehran that the United States was monitoring events closely and said Iran would face severe consequences if authorities killed more protesters. His remarks added international pressure as tensions remain high following recent military confrontations involving Iran, Israel, and the US.
Iran’s government has attempted to strike a balance between force and limited concessions. A new monthly cash allowance was announced to ease economic strain, while officials accused foreign powers of encouraging unrest. Conservative media blamed the United States and Israel for backing protesters, a claim rejected by demonstrators.
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Israel voiced support for the Iranian people, prompting Tehran to accuse it of trying to divide the country. Meanwhile, reports suggest protests have slowed in some areas, with businesses reopening and daily life resuming in parts of Tehran under heavy security.
Demonstrations have also spread among Iranian communities abroad. While the current unrest has not reached the scale of past nationwide protests, it reflects deep economic and political dissatisfaction that continues to challenge Iran’s leadership.
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