Iran protests sweep nation despite internet shutdown
AP News••general
Key Points:
- Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei condemned protesters and vowed a crackdown, dismissing U.S. President Donald Trump’s support for the demonstrations and accusing Trump of having “hands stained with the blood of Iranians.”
- Despite a government-imposed internet and communication blackout, videos showed widespread protests across Tehran and other areas, with chants against the regime and support for the former monarchy, marking the largest unrest in years.
- The protests, sparked by economic hardships and escalating since December 28, have resulted in at least 42 deaths and over 2,270 arrests, according to human rights groups, with Iranian state media blaming foreign “terrorist agents” for inciting violence.
- Former Crown Prince Reza P
