Iran Protests: Over 500 dead, negotiation hopes emerge amid U.S. pressure

The death toll from Iran’s nationwide protests over soaring inflation and the weakening rial has crossed 500, according to US-based rights groups, as authorities intensify a crackdown and the United States signals it is weighing military options.

Deaths and Arrests Mount

Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRNA) said at least 538 people have been killed over the past two weeks, including 490 protesters and 48 security personnel. The group added that more than 10,600 people have been arrested amid the unrest. The demonstrations began on December 28, triggered by rising prices and economic distress, and have since spread across several cities.

Iranian authorities have blamed foreign actors for the violence. State media quoted officials accusing the United States and Israel of fomenting unrest, linking the protests to alleged “terrorist actions” and last year’s brief conflict with Israel. The government has also called for counter-protests denouncing foreign interference.

Trump Weighs Intervention, Tehran Signals Talks

US President Donald Trump said Washington is considering “very strong options,” including possible military action. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said civilians who “were not supposed to be killed” had died and that the situation was being reviewed seriously by the military. He added that Iranian leaders had reached out to negotiate, though he cautioned the US “may have to act before a meeting.”

Global Solidarity, Calls from Exile

Solidarity protests have erupted worldwide, from Germany to the United States. In Los Angeles, a pro-Iran rally was disrupted when a truck attempted to drive through the crowd, prompting police intervention. Meanwhile, exiled prince Reza Pahlavi urged Iranian security forces to side with protesters, calling on them to choose the nation over “complicity” in repression.