January 11, 2026 — 5:14pm
Dubai: As nationwide protests against Iran’s theocracy enter their third week, the death toll has climbed to at least 116, according to activists. The unrest, sparked by economic grievances, has led to escalating violence and a severe crackdown by Iranian authorities. Meanwhile, reports suggest that U.S. President Donald Trump is contemplating military action against Iran, although no final decision has been made.
President Trump has taken to social media to express his support for the Iranian protesters, stating, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” In tandem, the U.S. State Department issued a stern warning, “Do not play games with President Trump. When he says he’ll do something, he means it.”
Protests and Government Response
The protests, which began on December 28 over the collapse of the Iranian rial, have been met with a heavy-handed response from the government. The currency’s devaluation, trading at over 1.4 million to $US1, has exacerbated the country’s economic woes, already strained by international sanctions linked to its nuclear program.
Iranian state media has reported casualties among security forces and has portrayed the government as maintaining control. However, it has largely ignored the deaths of demonstrators, whom it increasingly labels as “terrorists.” The protests have persisted, with significant demonstrations in Tehran and the holy city of Mashhad.
International and Domestic Reactions
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has signaled a forthcoming crackdown, despite warnings from the U.S. Iran’s attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, has issued a chilling warning, stating that participants in the protests could face charges as “enemies of God,” a crime punishable by death.
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has called for continued demonstrations, urging protesters to carry symbols from the era of the shah. This call to action has been met with violent imagery broadcast by state media, showing purported protesters attacking security forces.
Potential U.S. Military Action
According to reports from The New York Times and The Wall Street Journal, President Trump is seriously considering a military strike in response to Iran’s suppression of the protests. Options presented to him include targeting non-military sites in Tehran. The consideration of military action comes amid a backdrop of heightened tensions between the two nations.
The internet shutdown in Iran has made it increasingly difficult to assess the situation on the ground. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports that over 2,600 individuals have been detained, a figure consistent with previous periods of unrest.
“They are fighting, and losing their lives, against a dictatorial regime,” said Ali Rahmani, the son of Nobel Peace Prize laureate Narges Mohammadi, who is imprisoned in Iran.
Historical Context and Future Implications
The current unrest in Iran draws parallels to past protests, such as those in 2009 and 2019, where government crackdowns resulted in significant loss of life. The international community remains watchful, concerned that the internet blackout may facilitate another violent suppression.
The potential for U.S. military involvement adds a complex layer to the situation, with implications for both regional stability and international relations. As President Trump weighs his options, the world watches closely, aware that any decision could have far-reaching consequences.
As the situation develops, the international community continues to call for restraint and dialogue. The coming days will be crucial in determining the trajectory of the protests and the potential for further escalation.
