Protests across Iran have intensified despite a harsh government crackdown, as demonstrators continue to defy authorities in a bid for change. The unrest, which began on December 28 due to soaring inflation, has spread to over 100 cities, with protesters now calling for an end to the clerical rule of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.

Government Response and Internet Blackout

In response to the growing unrest, the Iranian government has imposed a near-total internet blackout, making it difficult for international media to report from inside the country. Despite this, verified videos have emerged showing violent clashes between protesters and security forces in major cities like Tehran and Mashhad. The country's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, has declared that anyone participating in the protests will be considered an "enemy of God," a charge that carries the death penalty.

Rising Tensions and International Reactions

The situation has drawn international attention, with US President Donald Trump warning Iran against killing protesters, stating that such actions would provoke a military response. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has countered by threatening that US military and Israeli targets would be legitimate for Iranian retaliation if attacked.

Humanitarian Crisis in Hospitals

Iranian hospitals are reportedly overwhelmed with casualties from the protests. Medical staff have described scenes of chaos, with many patients suffering from gunshot wounds. A Tehran hospital worker recounted the grim reality, stating, "There wasn't even time for CPR," as the number of injured and dead continued to rise.