Iran Protests: Unrest Spreads to 78 Cities, 35 Dead

Mass protests in Iran entered their tenth consecutive day Tuesday as Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei took to social media to blame the United States and Israel for the unrest, calling them a "malicious, lying, deceitful enemy." The regime appears increasingly panicked as demonstrations spread across the country, with protesters openly rejecting government narratives and declaring they are no longer afraid of authorities.

In an interview with Israel's Channel 12, a protester from the city of Mashhad who has taken to the streets described conditions in the country as unbearable. "The spiraling cost of living and lack of personal and social freedom are intolerable for me. The suffocation that has built up here in Iran over the years has turned into a scream," he said.

The demonstrator, who had previously avoided protests out of fear, said something fundamental has changed. "During the last few years, I didn't participate in protests out of fear and concern. But today there is nothing that scares me more than living under the shadow of the ayatollahs. I can say that this is true for the people as well. We are no longer afraid of anything."

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He placed responsibility squarely on Iran's Islamic Republic leadership, "from the dictator leader down to the last policeman oppressing citizens in the streets."

Protesters Reject Regime's Israel Narrative

Khamenei posted on social media Tuesday questioning why "the enemy" first sought a ceasefire during a 12-day conflict with the Iranian nation, then sent messages indicating they don't want to fight. "Of course, this malicious enemy is a lying deceiver and we don't trust them. But what causes this is the strength of the Iranian nation," he wrote.

The Mashhad protester dismissed the regime's attempt to blame external forces. "The government constantly throws the lie at us that we are Israeli agents receiving instructions from them. Is Israel responsible for the cost of living and the surge in the dollar exchange rate? Is it Israel's fault that you stole freedom and wealth from us and our children?"

He continued: "Israel and its people have stood by us again and again out of solidarity. They have proven they are our true friends."

Brutal Crackdown Continues

The protester described violent tactics used by security forces against even small gatherings. "The regime fires tear gas and rubber bullets at us to disperse us. A few nights ago, about 250 security personnel attacked us with batons. They beat many and arrested many others. Just the day before yesterday, they attacked a hospital and fired tear gas to forcibly remove injured people who participated in the protest."

"Isn't this a crime against humanity?" he asked. "This regime has never been representative of the Iranian people. They represent a small minority of religious ideologues who have no fear of burning the region, killing people, and destroying Iran."

Death Toll Rises to 35

According to Human Rights Activists news agency, the death toll from eight days of protests has reached 35 people, including 29 civilians, four children, and two security personnel. More than 1,200 demonstrators have been arrested by the Iranian regime.

Other human rights organizations report the protests have spread to at least 78 cities and 222 different locations. Security forces have killed at least 20 people, including three children, and arrested 990 protesters. More than 40 children have been detained by security forces.

The deadliest confrontation occurred in the city of Malekhshahi in Ilam province, where security forces opened fire on protesters Saturday. At least five people were killed and 30 others wounded in that incident. At least 51 people were injured at other locations across the country, mostly from rubber bullets and pepper spray.

Regime's Desperate $7 Cash Handout

In an apparent attempt to quell the unrest, the Iranian government announced Monday that citizens will receive monthly payments equivalent to about $7. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani announced the measure on state television, claiming it aims to preserve household purchasing power, curb inflation, and ensure food security.

The New York Times noted this represents a policy shift, with the regime abandoning its long-standing import subsidy system in favor of direct cash payments to citizens. The plan redirects approximately $10 billion previously allocated annually for subsidizing certain imports directly to the public.

Labor Minister said the payments will go to about 80 million people—nearly the entire population of the country.

The announcement comes amid a severe economic crisis caused in part by international sanctions and declining oil revenues. Iran's currency has lost more than half its value against the US dollar, and the country's statistics bureau reported in December that the average annual inflation rate reached 42.2%.

Trump Issues Warning to Tehran

US President Donald Trump delivered a stern warning Monday to the Iranian regime not to harm protesters. Speaking to reporters aboard Air Force One, Trump said: "We are closely monitoring what is happening in Iran. If they kill protesters like they did in the past—they will receive a very strong blow."

Over the weekend, Trump stated: "If they continue to violently kill peaceful protesters, we will come to their rescue. We are ready for action."

Widespread Demonstrations Continue

The protests involve merchants, business owners, and university students. Markets closed Tuesday and demonstrations took place on campuses across the country. Opposition organizations published photos of clashes between protesters and security forces.

In Tehran, large forces including plainclothes agents were deployed around the Grand Bazaar and shopping centers. Videos showed the use of tear gas and motorcycle units against protesters chanting anti-government slogans on Jomhuri Street and in residential neighborhoods. Authorities significantly restricted internet access in conflict zones, with residents reporting difficulty sending basic text messages for hours.

Massive protests were observed Tuesday night at Shiraz University, and street confrontations continued with demonstrators seen setting vehicles on fire on roads and chanting slogans against the regime.

A social media channel representing merchants in Tehran's Grand Bazaar called on shopkeepers in several bazaars to mobilize at noon Tuesday and march in coordinated processions toward the Iranian parliament.

Opposition Figures Condemn Violence

Exiled Iranian Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi declared that he stands with the families of those killed. Pahlavi addressed Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei directly: "By spilling the blood of the purest children of this land, you have brought your downfall closer. We will not retreat until the complete destruction of the anti-Iranian regime."

Abdullah Mohtadi, leader of the Kurdish Komala party, also condemned what he called the "great crime" by the Revolutionary Guards and expressed condolences to the families of those killed.