Over 100 Iranian officers reportedly killed in protests against government crackdown

US President Donald Trump has made comments on social media suggesting that the US is prepared to help protesters in Iran amid an intensifying crackdown on nationwide demonstrations. Iranian Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf has warned the US against any attack, stating that Iran would consider retaliatory strikes if Washington were to intervene.

According to reports from state television and the Tasnim news agency, dozens of members of security forces have been killed during protests across the country, with 109 reported fatalities. The Iranian Red Crescent also confirmed a staff member’s death in an attack on one of its relief buildings.

The Ministry of Interior has stated that the “riots” are gradually subsiding, while the attorney general has warned that those involved in the unrest could face the death penalty. Qalibaf spoke in parliament on Sunday, saying that Iran would target occupied territories and US bases and ships if attacked.

Lawmakers reportedly rushed the dais in parliament, shouting slogans against the US. Authorities have been trying to distinguish between protesters and “rioters” or “saboteurs,” according to Al Jazeera’s Tohid Asadi.

The nationwide shutdown of the internet in Iran has lasted over 60 hours, with Netblocks stating that it presents a direct threat to the safety and wellbeing of Iranians. The Iranian army has stated that it will defend the country’s national interests, accusing Israel and “hostile terrorist groups” of seeking to undermine public security.

Protests began in late December and are the largest in Iran since 2022-2023.

Source: Al Jazeera