The ongoing protests against Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's regime in Iran have reached a more violent and dangerous turning point on the 13th day. The gravity of the situation is evident as the country's highest authority has now entrusted the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) with full responsibility for internal security. Reports suggest that the regular army and police were unable to control the demonstrators, leading to this decision.
According to reports, Khamenei has ordered the IRGC to be on maximum alert. Even Iran's underground missile units, known as 'Missile Cities,' have been activated. It is said that these are the very missile sites that were protected during last year's conflict with Israel. Security agencies believe that should there be any foreign intervention, the situation could escalate toward a 'catastrophic war.'
Iranian officials have labeled the protesters as 'terrorists,' stating that in the past two days, violent mobs have targeted military and law enforcement sites. The government reports several fatalities among both civilians and security personnel, alongside extensive damage to private property.
Late on Friday night, a municipal building in the city of Karaj, west of Tehran, was set ablaze. Protests continued in Shiraz, Qom, and Hamedan, with tensions high and increased deployment of security forces.
Protests Against Khamenei's Regime Claim 217 Lives
The figures from human rights organizations and independent sources are deeply concerning. According to HRANA, by January 9th, at least 65 confirmed deaths occurred, including 50 protesters and 15 security personnel. However, the real number is feared to be much higher. A doctor speaking to TIME claimed 217 protesters' deaths were recorded in just six hospitals in Tehran, most of them targeted with live ammunition.
Meanwhile, a stern message from the U.S. has emerged. U.S. President Donald Trump warned the Iranian leadership that should protesters be fired upon, America will not shy away from a retaliatory response. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio expressed support for the Iranian people, describing them as courageous.
Pro-Khamenei Rallies also Emerge
Yet, pro-government forces have also taken to the streets. Pro-regime rallies were witnessed in several cities, with supporters chanting in favor of Khamenei and labeling the protesters as traitors. Accusations of damage to governmental buildings and private properties have been made.
The exiled Crown Prince and Iranian leader Reza Pahlavi called for the intensification of the movement, urging nationwide strikes in the oil, gas, and energy sectors. He appealed to seize and maintain control of cities. Videos from strategic cities like Mashhad showed IRGC officers pleading with protesters to end strikes, clearly indicating the weakening grip of power and security forces.
At this moment, Iran stands at a crossroads, where street anger, fear within the corridors of power, and escalating international pressure are converging to make the situation explosively tense.
