Iran protests death toll crosses 500 amid fears of US intervention

Unrest in Iran has claimed more than 500 lives, a US-based rights group reported Sunday, as tensions mount over potential American involvement and Tehran warns of reprisals if the United States acts against the government.

According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 490 protesters and 48 members of security forces have been killed in nearly two weeks of demonstrations, with over 10,600 people arrested. The figures reflect the largest wave of protests in Iran since 2022, sparked initially by economic hardship and rising prices before evolving into widespread anti-government demonstrations.

The Iranian government has not released official casualty figures, and an ongoing internet blackout has severely limited independent reporting on the scale of the violence.

The unrest began on December 28 as shopkeepers and residents protested over soaring inflation and a collapsing currency. Protests quickly spread across the country’s 31 provinces, with demonstrators demanding political change and an end to the clerical establishment’s rule.

Amid rising global concern, US President Donald Trump has signaled support for Iranian protesters and is reported to be reviewing possible options — including military strikes, cyber measures, expanded sanctions, and support for opposition groups — if the regime continues to use lethal force against civilians.

In response, Iran’s leadership has issued stark warnings to Washington. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf cautioned that any foreign assault could prompt Tehran to target US and Israeli military assets, escalating tensions across the Middle East.

State media has described the unrest as being driven by foreign powers, accusing the United States and Israel of inciting “terrorist actions,” while government broadcasts have also shown funerals for security personnel killed in clashes.

Despite the crackdown, protesters continue to take to the streets, with verified videos showing large crowds and clashes in major cities such as Tehran and Mashhad.

International rights groups have condemned the violence and urged restraint, but with the situation rapidly evolving and communications restricted, accurate information remains difficult to obtain.