**Excerpt:** Iran’s leaders confirm deaths during ongoing protests but assert that the situation is under control, as President Trump considers military options.
Key Points
– Iran’s foreign minister claims protests are “under total control.”
– U.S. President Trump warns of potential military intervention if protests escalate.
– Reports indicate that the death toll may exceed 544, including many protesters.
– Iranian state media broadcasts images of casualties, possibly to shift blame onto foreign influences.
– Internet services may resume as the Iranian government assesses the situation.
Full Article
Iranian Government’s Response to Protests
Iran’s theocratic leadership is facing unprecedented pressure due to ongoing anti-government protests that have persisted for over two weeks. Reports indicate a rapidly increasing death toll, with U.S. President Donald Trump keeping military intervention as a potential response.
On Sunday, Trump revealed that Iranian officials had reached out to negotiate, following his threats of intervention if the government harmed protesters. In an unusual move, Iranian state media aired footage of mass casualties at a morgue in a Tehran suburb, showing bodies wrapped in black bags and grieving individuals searching for loved ones.
Claims of Control Amid Rising Casualties
Iran’s Foreign Minister, Abbas Araghchi, stated that the protest situation is “under total control.” He reiterated the government’s narrative, suggesting that the violence is instigated by radical elements influenced by Trump’s support for the protesters. State media described large pro-government demonstrations, portraying them as a response to “American-Zionist terrorism.”
Trump warned that if the Iranian government continued to harm protesters, the U.S. would “act before a meeting” could take place. He has been briefed on possible military options against Iran, though no U.S. forces have been mobilized yet.
Death Toll and Human Rights Concerns
Human rights organizations report that the death toll from the protests has surged, with estimates suggesting at least 544 fatalities, including 483 protesters and 47 security personnel. The protests have reportedly spread to 186 cities across all 31 provinces in Iran.
Organizations like the Human Rights Activists News Agency and the Iran Human Rights (IHR) group have provided alarming figures, indicating that the death toll could exceed 2,000. Additionally, HRANA estimates that over 10,000 individuals have been arrested amid the unrest.
Future Actions and Internet Service
In light of the turmoil, Iranian officials have indicated that internet services might be restored in coordination with security forces, signaling a potential easing of restrictions as the government assesses its grip on the situation.
As the standoff continues, both the Iranian government and U.S. officials maintain a readiness for dialogue, while tensions remain high amid the ongoing protests and international scrutiny.
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