Iran has cautioned the United States against launching an attack over the protests sweeping the country, as reports indicate the death toll has risen to several hundred. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency says at least 538 people have been killed, including 490 protesters, with more than 10,600 arrested.
The figures could not be independently verified, and another Norway-based monitor, Iran Human Rights, put the toll at least 192. A complete internet shutdown has made it difficult for rights groups to reach contacts inside Iran, and all figures are expected to be undercounts.
President Donald Trump has renewed his threats to intervene, saying on his Truth Social platform that the US stands ready to help. According to the Wall Street Journal, he is to be briefed on options including military strikes, cyber weapons, expanded sanctions and providing online assistance to anti-government sources.
Iranian officials have reacted defiantly. The parliament speaker, Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf, said that in the event of an attack, Israel and all American military centres, bases and ships in the region would be legitimate targets. President Masoud Pezeshkian accused the US and Israel of bringing in 'terrorists' and urged families not to allow their children to join 'rioters and terrorists'.
The government has declared three days of national mourning for 'martyrs' including members of the security forces. A 'national resistance march' is planned for Monday. The national police chief said significant arrests had been made, and the attorney general has warned that those caught protesting could be charged with being 'an enemy of God', an offence punishable by death.
The protests, triggered by a sudden currency slide, have grown into demands for political reform and the downfall of the government. Analysts say the unrest reflects a regime weakened by economic crisis and the aftermath of its summer war with Israel. US senators have echoed Mr Trump's calls, with Lindsey Graham saying on social media that Iranians' 'long nightmare is soon coming to a close', while Israeli officials are reported to be on high alert.
