Iran has approached the United Nations Security Council, accusing the United States and Israel of fuelling unrest and interfering in its internal affairs, as nationwide protests continued for more than 10 days and authorities imposed sweeping communication blackouts.
In a letter seen by Reuters, Iran’s UN envoy Amir Saeid Iravani condemned what he described as the “unlawful and irresponsible conduct” of the US, alleging that Washington, in coordination with Israel, was encouraging instability, violence and vandalism inside Iran. He said such actions violated international law and undermined the UN Charter.
The complaint comes amid growing pressure on the leadership of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, as protests spread across multiple cities. Despite the government shutting down internet services and cutting telephone networks, videos circulating online showed crowds continuing demonstrations late Friday in Tehran, Mashhad, Tabriz and Qom.
Rising death toll, widening unrest
Human rights groups report a growing number of casualties. Norway-based Iran Human Rights said at least 51 protesters, including nine children, have been killed, while hundreds more have been injured. Other estimates place the toll even higher, with at least 65 deaths reported since protests erupted in late December over economic hardship and political grievances.
The demonstrations are being described as the most significant since the 2022–23 protests sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini while in custody.
Internet monitoring group NetBlocks said Iran had imposed a “nationwide internet shutdown” over the past 24 hours, calling it a violation of citizens’ rights and an attempt to conceal the scale of the crackdown. Amnesty International also accused authorities of using the blackout to hide serious human rights violations.
Trump–Khamenei war of words
US President Donald Trump has openly voiced support for the protesters, saying Iran was “in big trouble” and warning Tehran against using force. He also issued a blunt threat: “You better not start shooting because we’ll start shooting too.”
Ayatollah Khamenei responded sharply, comparing Trump to historical tyrants who were eventually overthrown. In a speech and in a post on X, he accused the US president of having “hands stained with the blood” of Iranians, referencing recent conflict involving Israel and US military action.
Hardline stance from Iranian authorities
Iran’s judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei warned that punishment for those involved in the unrest would be “decisive” and without leniency. The Revolutionary Guards’ intelligence arm said protecting the Islamic Republic was a “red line” and described the protests as unacceptable.
Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi, speaking from exile, warned that security forces may be preparing for a large-scale crackdown under the cover of the communications blackout.
Meanwhile, Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s last shah, urged Trump and the international community to support the protesters, claiming mass demonstrations were set to continue.
