Mass Protests Shake Iran Amid Internet Blackout and Fierce Crackdown
January 10, 2026
Protests continued into Saturday morning across Iran despite strict government crackdowns and an internet shutdown imposed on Thursday. Thousands marched in Tehran and other cities chanting "Death to Khamenei" and "Long live the shah." Fires burned in Mashhad, Khamenei's hometown, while police used live ammunition, according to activists. The US has warned Iran against shooting protesters. President Trump said, "You better not start shooting, because we’ll start shooting too." The internet blackout has made it difficult for international media to confirm details. Some reports claim hundreds have been killed and over 2,300 arrested. Nobel laureate Shirin Ebadi warned of a potential massacre under the communications blackout. Protesters began demonstrating on December 28 due to economic woes but quickly shifted to anti-government slogans. The Iranian government accuses foreign powers like the US and Israel of backing the unrest and warns of security threats. State TV urged people not to protest, warning parents to stop their children. International leaders, including US Secretary of State Marco Rubio, voiced support for the protesters. Despite crackdowns, more protests are planned for the weekend. Exiled royal Reza Pahlavi called on demonstrators to wave the old Iranian flag and has urged security personnel to slow the crackdown. Activists urge global media to highlight the use of live ammunition against civilian protesters amid worsening violence.
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Tags:
Iran Protests
Ayatollah Khamenei
Internet Blackout
Us-iran tensions
Security Crackdown
Reza Pahlavi
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