Iran’s parliament convened Sunday amid a surge in violence that has pushed the Iran protest death toll to 116, according to activists and independent observers. The session, held in Tehran’s Majlis building, was interrupted by lawmakers chanting “Death to America!” before quickly shifting to a more subdued tone as officials debated the next steps in a crisis that has already seen 2,600 arrests and a nationwide internet blackout.
Background and Context
The protests that began on December 28 were sparked by a sudden collapse of the Iranian rial, which fell to over 1.4 million to the U.S. dollar. The currency crash, compounded by years of sanctions over Iran’s nuclear program, has left many Iranians struggling to afford basic goods. Within days, demonstrators flooded the streets of Tehran and Mashhad, demanding economic reform and, increasingly, a challenge to the theocratic regime.
Over the past two weeks, the protests have escalated from peaceful marches to clashes with security forces. Activists report that the death toll has risen to 116, a figure that includes civilians, protesters, and, in some cases, security personnel. The Iranian government has denied the numbers, citing “unverified reports” and claiming that the violence is the result of “extremist elements.”
In the meantime, the Iranian state has imposed a comprehensive internet shutdown, cutting off most domestic and international communications. Phone lines have been severed, and satellite-based services such as Starlink have been temporarily blocked. This blackout has made it difficult for journalists and human rights groups to verify casualty figures and has amplified fears that the regime may use the crisis to justify a hardline crackdown.
Key Developments
During the parliamentary session, lawmakers initially shouted slogans that echoed the rhetoric of the regime’s hardliners. “Death to America!” was heard from the front benches, a stark reminder of the political climate that has shaped Iran’s domestic and foreign policy for decades. However, the session quickly shifted to a more measured tone as officials debated the next steps in dealing with the unrest.
- Parliamentary debate: Lawmakers discussed potential measures to quell the protests, including increased security presence and possible legal reforms. The session was marked by a mix of hardline and moderate voices, reflecting the internal divisions within the Iranian political elite.
- Security crackdown: The Iranian attorney general warned that participation in protests would be treated as an “enemy of God” offense, potentially punishable by death. The statement was broadcast on state television, signaling a willingness to use extreme measures against dissent.
- International reactions: U.S. President Donald Trump publicly expressed support for the protesters, tweeting, “Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!” While the White House has not confirmed any military options, the statement has heightened tensions between Tehran and Washington.
- Information blackout: With internet and phone services cut off, the regime has limited the flow of information. Independent journalists have resorted to satellite-based transmission to share footage of protests in Tehran’s Punak neighborhood and Mashhad’s Imam Reza shrine area.
Impact Analysis
For international students studying in Iran, the escalating violence and government crackdown pose significant safety concerns. Universities have issued travel advisories urging students to avoid large gatherings and to stay informed about local security developments. The Iranian Ministry of Education has temporarily suspended classes in several universities, citing “security concerns.”
Students on Iranian visas may face complications if they are caught in the crossfire or detained. The Iranian government’s recent statements suggest that even “supporting rioters” could lead to severe penalties. Consequently, students are advised to:
- Maintain a low profile and avoid public demonstrations.
- Keep emergency contact information for their home country’s embassy or consulate.
- Stay updated on travel advisories issued by their home governments.
- Consider temporary relocation to safer areas if advised by local authorities.
Moreover, the internet shutdown hampers access to academic resources, online classes, and communication with professors and peers. Students may need to rely on offline materials or secure VPN services, though the latter may be blocked by Iranian authorities.
Expert Insights and Practical Guidance
Dr. Leila Farhadi, a political scientist at the University of Tehran, notes that “the regime’s use of internet censorship is a classic tactic to control the narrative and prevent coordinated resistance.” She advises students to use encrypted messaging apps and to avoid sharing sensitive information on public platforms.
Legal counsel at the International Student Legal Center recommends that students review their visa status and understand the implications of being detained in Iran. “If you are arrested, you have the right to legal representation and consular access,” says attorney Amir Hosseini. “It is crucial to keep your passport and visa documents in a secure place and to know the location of your home country’s embassy.”
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 Level 4: “Do Not Travel.” The advisory warns of arbitrary arrest, detention, and the possibility of violent clashes. Students should consult their university’s international office and consider postponing travel until the situation stabilizes.
Looking Ahead
The Iranian government’s next steps remain uncertain. While the parliament has signaled a willingness to negotiate, hardliners within the security apparatus may push for a more forceful response. The ongoing internet blackout and the regime’s threat of severe penalties for protesters suggest that a crackdown could intensify.
Internationally, the U.S. and its allies are monitoring the situation closely. The possibility of a military response, as hinted by President Trump’s tweets, remains speculative but cannot be ruled out. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the crisis are underway, with the United Nations and several European countries calling for restraint and a return to dialogue.
For students and scholars, the key takeaway is to remain vigilant, stay informed through reliable sources, and prioritize personal safety. The situation in Iran is fluid, and the death toll may rise as the protests continue. Universities and governments are likely to adjust their policies in response to new developments.
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