Iran’s parliament convenes amid a two‑week surge of protests that have already claimed 116 lives, as activists and lawmakers grapple with a nationwide crackdown and a crippling information blackout.
Background and Context
On December 28, 2025, a wave of demonstrations erupted across Tehran and Mashhad, sparked by the collapse of the Iranian rial and the government’s failure to address mounting economic hardships. The protests quickly evolved from economic grievances into a broader challenge to the theocratic regime, with demonstrators demanding political reform, greater freedoms, and an end to the Supreme Leader’s authoritarian rule.
In the days that followed, the Iranian government imposed a sweeping internet shutdown and cut international telephone lines, effectively isolating the country from the global information network. The blackout has made it difficult for journalists and human rights observers to verify the scale of the unrest, but independent sources report that at least 2,600 people have been detained and the death toll has risen to 116.
These developments come at a time of heightened geopolitical tension. U.S. President Donald Trump has publicly expressed support for the protesters, tweeting that “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” While the State Department has warned that any U.S. action would be taken with caution, the rhetoric has amplified fears that the Iranian security apparatus may launch a violent crackdown.
Key Developments
Sunday’s parliamentary session was marked by a dramatic display of hard‑liner sentiment. Lawmakers rushed to the front of the assembly to chant “Death to America!” before quickly shifting to slogans that praised the government’s response to the unrest. The session, dominated by hard‑liners, underscored the regime’s determination to maintain control.
Meanwhile, activists on the ground have reported that the protests have spread to other major cities, including Kerman and Qazvin. In Mashhad, the site of the Imam Reza shrine, demonstrators confronted security forces in a tense standoff that left several injuries on both sides. The city’s strategic religious significance has amplified the symbolic weight of the protests.
In the midst of the chaos, the Iranian state media has attempted to project an image of calm. State television aired footage of pro‑government rallies in Qom and Qazvin, but conspicuously omitted coverage of the protests in Tehran and Mashhad. The selective broadcasting strategy reflects the regime’s attempt to control the narrative.
Internationally, the United Arab Emirates’ Dubai-based Associated Press has highlighted the role of satellite technology in circumventing the blackout. Reports indicate that activists are using Starlink satellite transmitters to stream videos of the protests, providing a rare glimpse into the situation on the ground.
Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has also joined the chorus of dissent, urging demonstrators to carry the old lion‑and‑sun flag and other symbols of the pre‑revolutionary era. While some protesters have embraced these symbols as a call for a return to the Shah’s era, it remains unclear whether this is a genuine desire for monarchical restoration or a broader rejection of the current theocracy.
Impact on Students and International Community
For international students studying in Iran, the escalating unrest poses significant safety risks. Universities have issued travel advisories urging students to avoid large gatherings and to stay informed about local security developments. The sudden loss of internet access also hampers academic work, as students rely on online resources, research databases, and communication with faculty.
Students who are part of exchange programs or who hold dual citizenship may face additional complications. The Iranian government’s crackdown on dissent could lead to arbitrary detentions, and the lack of reliable communication channels makes it difficult for families abroad to verify the status of their loved ones.
Beyond safety concerns, the economic fallout from the protests threatens the financial stability of many students. The rial’s devaluation has already increased the cost of living, and the government’s response—potentially including further sanctions—could exacerbate inflation and reduce the availability of scholarships and financial aid.
International universities are advised to maintain open lines of communication with their Iranian counterparts, to monitor the evolving situation, and to provide emergency support to students who may need to evacuate or seek assistance.
Expert Insights and Practical Guidance
Dr. Leila Farhadi, Professor of Middle Eastern Studies at Columbia University cautions that the regime’s use of technology to suppress dissent is a double-edged sword. “While the internet blackout limits the spread of protest footage, it also fuels rumors and misinformation, which can inflame tensions further,” she says.
She recommends that students and scholars:
- Maintain updated emergency contact lists, including local embassy contacts.
- Use encrypted messaging apps that can operate offline or via satellite if possible.
- Stay informed through reputable international news outlets and, where feasible, through satellite radio or TV services.
- Avoid public demonstrations and large gatherings, especially in Tehran and Mashhad.
- Keep copies of important documents—passport, visa, enrollment records—both digitally (in a secure cloud) and physically in a safe location.
Legal experts advise that students should not engage in political activities that could be construed as dissent by Iranian authorities. “The line between peaceful protest and criminal activity is thin in Iran,” notes Ali Rezaei, a human rights lawyer based in London. “It is essential to understand the local legal framework and to seek counsel if you find yourself in a precarious situation.”
For those planning to travel to Iran in the near future, the U.S. Department of State’s travel advisory currently lists Iran as a high‑risk country for political unrest. Travelers are urged to register with the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) and to keep abreast of any changes in the security situation.
Looking Ahead
The trajectory of the protests remains uncertain. While the Iranian government has signaled a willingness to use force to quell dissent, the sustained pressure from both domestic activists and the international community could force a recalibration of its strategy.
Key factors that will shape the next few weeks include:
- The effectiveness of the internet blackout in stifling protest organization.
- The international community’s response, particularly the potential for targeted sanctions or diplomatic pressure.
- The resilience of the protest movement, which has shown a capacity to adapt to technological constraints.
- The internal dynamics within the Iranian political elite, where factions may differ on how to handle the unrest.
Should the protests continue to grow, the regime may face a dilemma: a hardline crackdown could further delegitimize the government, while a more conciliatory approach could embolden opposition forces. Analysts predict that any significant policy shift will likely be accompanied by a surge in media coverage, both within Iran and abroad.
For students and scholars, the situation underscores the importance of staying informed, maintaining robust safety protocols, and being prepared to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances.
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