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Iran is witnessing its deadliest unrest in years as violent protests swept through Tehran and several other cities overnight. At least 217 people have reportedly been killed in the capital alone, with clashes spreading to more than 100 cities nationwide.
Tehran Burns as Anti-Government Protests Turn Violent Across Iran
Tehran: The ongoing political crisis in Iran has taken a serious violent turn. Protests that have been ongoing for the past two weeks took their most violent turn on Friday night. The capital, Tehran, witnessed intense unrest overnight, with at least 217 people reportedly dead. Given the gravity of the situation, the government has shut down internet services across the country.
Initially, the movement was against rising inflation, unemployment, and the falling value of the Iranian rial. However, the protests gradually became directly directed against the religious leadership and the ruling establishment. The movement is no longer confined to Tehran, but has spread to several major cities across the country.
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A local doctor, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that 217 deaths have been recorded in just six hospitals in Tehran. Most of these deaths were from gunshot wounds. Additionally, 14 army personnel have been confirmed killed in the clashes. Police have detained approximately 2,300 people so far.
According to reports, violence has spread to 20 Iranian provinces, and large-scale protests are taking place in more than 110 cities. Incidents of arson and vandalism have been reported in cities such as Mashhad, Qom, Isfahan, Bushehr, Qazvin, and Vajd. Protesters set fires in the streets and targeted government property.
During the violence, 26 banks were looted, 25 mosques were set on fire, and 10 government buildings were burned. In addition, 48 fire engines, 42 buses, and several ambulances were damaged. 24 apartments were also damaged. Many colleges and universities have been closed as a precaution.
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Tehran Mayor Alireza Zakani stated that the capital's infrastructure has suffered significant damage. He reported that hospitals, medical centers, banks, and religious sites were attacked. Emergency teams are continuously engaged in repair and relief work.
The movement began on December 29th, 2025, when merchants closed their shops to protest the falling value of the rial. Students, workers, and ordinary citizens subsequently joined in. Clashes between protesters and security forces have intensified in recent days.
The entire nation is currently watching the situation as the situation in Iran appears to be spiraling out of control.