Iran has rejected calls for leniency toward protesters, maintaining a hardline stance despite warnings from US President Donald Trump. Authorities insist they support peaceful demonstrations but will crack down on what they call “rioters” amid ongoing unrest driven by economic hardship.
Judiciary Orders Crackdown, Protests Continue
Judiciary Chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei ordered prosecutors nationwide to take firm action against those accused of causing instability. He stressed that courts would show no leniency toward rioters, while claiming the state distinguishes them from peaceful protesters.
Demonstrations have spread to 45 cities across 23 provinces. At least 12 people, including security personnel, have died since late December. Police have also seized weapons and materials for improvised explosives in Tehran.
Trump Warns, Iran Pushes Back
President Trump warned that Tehran would “get hit very hard” if authorities killed more demonstrators. Iran dismissed the threat and accused the US and Israel of exploiting unrest to undermine national unity. Officials say protests have declined in recent days, with shops reopening and daily life resuming in Tehran, though security forces remain deployed.
Iran’s economy continues to struggle under sanctions. The rial has lost over a third of its value in a year, and inflation remains high. To ease pressure, the government announced a monthly cash allowance for all citizens.
