The situation in Iran has reached alarming levels as authorities impose a deadly crackdown on protests that have erupted across the nation. Since December 28, 2025, Iranian citizens have taken to the streets demanding significant political change and an end to decades of repression under the Islamic Republic. As citizens voice their frustrations over economic hardships and a severe currency collapse, security forces have responded with unprecedented violence, resulting in mass killings and serious injuries among demonstrators.
Beginning with strikes and shop closures in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, the protests have escalated into widespread demonstrations nationwide, calling for the downfall of the current regime. Reports indicate that since January 8, authorities have shut down all internet access, aiming to suppress information about their violent actions and prevent the outside world from witnessing the brutality faced by protesters.
Witnesses have described horrific scenes as security forces unlawfully fire upon unarmed demonstrators using rifles and shotguns loaded with metal pellets. Medical facilities are overwhelmed, struggling to treat the injured as families search for their loved ones among the dead in overcrowded morgues and storage facilities. The level of repression has led to sweeping arrests, with many detained protesters at risk of torture and even facing the death penalty, as the head of judiciary has ordered harsh consequences for those opposing the regime.
The response to this humanitarian crisis requires urgent action from the international community. UN member states are urged to take immediate diplomatic measures to protect the protesters and hold Iranian authorities accountable for their actions. This could include convening special sessions at the UN Human Rights Council and the UN Security Council to address the escalating violence and explore avenues for international criminal justice, including a possible referral of Iran to the International Criminal Court.
Citizens around the globe are encouraged to lend their voices to this cause by signing petitions that call for international pressure on Iranian authorities to halt the bloodshed and uphold human rights within the country. Through collective efforts, there is hope for a peaceful resolution and a future where the rights and dignity of individuals are respected in Iran.