Iran goes dark online as protests hit day 12, deaths mount and Trump warns Tehran: 'We’ll hit them very hard'

Unrest over inflation and a collapsing rial has left at least 45 dead, prompted a nationwide internet blackout, and drawn warnings from the US and Europe.

• Iran faces 12 days of nationwide protests over inflation and currency collapse
• At least 45 protesters killed, over 2,000 arrested amid violent crackdown
• Internet blackout imposed, limiting communication and protest coordination

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Iran is facing its most sustained wave of unrest since 2022, with nationwide protests entering a 12th day amid reports of dozens of deaths, mass arrests and a sweeping internet blackout. Demonstrations that began over rising prices and a collapsing currency have spread across multiple provinces, exposing deep economic and political fault lines.

The protests were triggered on December 28 after merchants shut Tehran’s Grand Bazaar to protest inflation and the sharp fall of the rial. Since then, rallies and clashes have been reported across western and central Iran, according to rights groups and online monitors.

Nationwide internet blackout reported

Internet watchdog NetBlocks said live network data on Thursday showed Iran was “in the midst of a nationwide internet blackout,” following days of escalating digital restrictions. The outage is expected to severely limit communication, video sharing and coordination as protests continue.

Iran has repeatedly used internet shutdowns during periods of unrest, a tactic that curbs mobilisation while making independent verification of events more difficult.

At least 45 protesters reported killed

Norway-based NGO Iran Human Rights said security forces have killed at least 45 protesters since demonstrations began, including eight minors. The group reported that Wednesday was the deadliest day so far, with 13 confirmed deaths, more than 2,000 arrests and hundreds injured.

“The scope of the crackdown is becoming more violent and more extensive every day,” said the group’s director, Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam.

Trump warns Iran against escalation

US President Donald Trump said Washington would respond forcefully if Iran’s leadership escalates its crackdown and begins killing demonstrators.

“I have let them know that if they start killing people … we are going to hit them very hard,” Trump said in an interview, raising tensions as protests spread.

Iranian president urges restraint

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian called for “utmost restraint,” urging security forces to avoid violence and coercion.

“Any violent or coercive behaviour should be avoided,” Pezeshkian said, calling for dialogue and engagement with protesters demanding relief from rising living costs.

Germany condemns use of force

Germany condemned what it described as the “excessive use of force” against protesters. German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul said demonstrators had the right to express their views peacefully.

Iran warns US and Israel

Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran had no intention of going to war with the United States or Israel but warned it would respond decisively to any renewed attack. He said Iran remained open to nuclear talks with Washington, provided discussions were based on “mutual respect.”

Reza Pahlavi’s planned US visit draws attention

Against the backdrop of unrest, exiled Iranian prince Reza Pahlavi is expected to visit former President Trump’s Mar-a-Lago residence next week to attend the Jerusalem Prayer Breakfast, according to journalist Laura Loomer. There is no confirmation of a meeting with Trump, but the timing has heightened international attention on Iran.