Iran Protests
In this frame grab from video taken by an individual not employed by The Associated Press and obtained by the AP outside Iran shows people during a protest in Tehran, Iran, Friday, Jan. 9, 2026.
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Protests in Iran have continued despite threats from the government to crack down. Online videos show demonstrators protesting Friday night, even after authorities shut down the internet and cut phone lines. The protests, which began over economic issues, have become a significant challenge to the government. Activists say at least 65 people have been killed. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized U.S. President Donald Trump, who has pledged support for peaceful protesters. Iran’s judiciary chief has vowed harsh punishment for demonstrators. European leaders have condemned the violence and urged Iran to allow free expression.
Activists say the death toll in nationwide protests challenging Iran's theocracy has reached at least 116 people killed. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency gave the new figure, saying arrests had reached more than 2,600 people as well. The agency has been accurate in multiple rounds of unrest previously. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has signaled a coming clampdown, despite U.S. warnings from President Donald Trump that America could intervene to protect peaceful demonstrators. Tehran escalated its threats Saturday, with the Iran’s attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, warning that anyone taking part in protests will be considered an “enemy of God,” a death-penalty charge.
DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — Just after 8 p.m. Thursday, Iran's theocracy pulled the p…
