Iran's protest wave escalates on day 12 amid internet blackout

The protest movement shaking Iran has entered a more intense and widespread phase, with demonstrators taking to the streets across all provinces on the 12th consecutive day of unrest. Authorities responded by imposing a near-total communications blackout, cutting off internet and mobile phone services across the country in an apparent attempt to stifle organization and limit footage of the demonstrations from reaching the world.

Nationwide Scale and a Strategic Blackout

Thursday's protests marked a significant escalation in both participation and geographic reach. For the first time, major metropolitan centers like the capital Tehran, Mashhad, and Shiraz saw widespread involvement, alongside continued demonstrations in other regions. The day began with a nationwide strike that shuttered shops in almost every province. As evening fell, large-scale gatherings materialized, prompting the government to sever digital communications—a tactic frequently used during periods of intense unrest to disrupt coordination and documentation.

Clashes on Multiple Fronts and Mounting Casualties

The protests are no longer confined to economic grievances, as the situation grows more complex and violent. In Kurdish-majority regions, clashes erupted between Iranian security forces and the separatist PJAK group. Official reports confirmed the deaths of two Iranian soldiers in these engagements. In the city of Qazvin, a security officer was reportedly lynched by a crowd, indicating a dangerous escalation in hostility toward authorities. Independent human rights groups report the nationwide death toll has risen to at least 38, including four security personnel, with hundreds more injured and over 2,200 arrests.

US Warnings and Iranian Condemnation of 'Interference'

The crisis has drawn direct intervention from the United States, further inflaming tensions. President Donald Trump issued a stark warning in a radio interview, stating, "I have let them know that if they start killing people... we're going to hit them very hard." He added that Iran would "have to pay hell" for a violent crackdown. Tehran has vehemently condemned these statements. Iran's Foreign Ministry accused the US of "interference in Iran's internal affairs" and "hostility toward the Iranian people," framing Washington's comments as deceptive and opportunistic. Despite the high stakes, the Iranian government and judiciary have maintained an official silence, issuing no public statements on the 12th day of profound national upheaval.