In Iran, the government has issued a strict warning to protesters amid escalating nationwide unrest that began in late December 2025 and has since spread to dozens of cities. The clerical leadership and security authorities have labelled demonstrators “rioters” and issued ultimatums for them to disperse or face severe consequences, with the national police chief announcing that those involved in what officials describe as “riots” must surrender within a limited period or confront “the full force of the law.”
The warning comes as authorities impose sweeping security measures, including a near-total internet blackout and enhanced deployments of the Revolutionary Guards and other security forces to quell protests triggered initially by economic hardship and grievances over governance. High-ranking officials have pledged that punishments for those detained could be “decisive” and without leniency, and some state media rhetoric has invoked charges that carry severe penalties under Iranian law.
Human rights groups say thousands of demonstrators have been killed or arrested in the crackdown, while government sources attribute violence and property damage to “terrorist elements.” The situation has drawn international concern, with foreign governments expressing alarm over the heavy-handed response to largely peaceful demonstrations. As tensions remain high and the streets quiet under a heavy security presence, campaigners warn that further clashes could erupt if grievances go unaddressed — news as reported.
