Violent protests in Iran claimed 116 lives and led to around 2,638 arrests

•  Khamenei's government threatens the US and Israel

(Fast Mail):-- For more than two weeks, people in Iran have been protesting on the streets against Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei and amid the protests, internet services have been shut down in Iran. According to media reports, at least 116 people have died in these protests so far.

The US-based human rights news agency (HRANA) estimated on Saturday that at least 2,638 people have been arrested. On one hand, the US continues to warn Iran that if the Iranian government uses violence against the protesters, the US military will strike.

 Iran's Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad warned that those participating in the protests could be accused of being "enemies of God," a crime punishable by death. He also cautioned that anyone assisting the protesters would face the same charge.

Meanwhile, US officials warned Tehran not to test its patience and intentions. The nationwide internet shutdown in Iran during the government-opposition protests has now lasted more than 60 hours.

On the other hand, Israeli media reported that Iran has warned Trump that any US attack would result in retaliatory strikes targeting Tehran, Israel, and nearby US military bases.Citing sources, Israeli media said Israel is on high alert over the possibility of US intervention to support the ongoing anti-government movement in Iran.

 Iran's Parliament Speaker stated that if the US launches any new attack during the protests against the Khamenei government, Iran will target US military and shipping assets. This also poses a threat to Israel.

This report aligns with current events in January 2026, where nationwide anti-government protests in Iran — initially sparked by economic collapse (currency crash, hyperinflation) — have escalated into widespread calls for regime change, with chants like "Death to Khamenei" and monarchist symbols appearing.

More than 2,600-2,638 people have been arrested. 

Protests have spread to hundreds of locations across all 31 provinces, despite a severe nationwide internet and communications blackout.

The Iranian regime, led by Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has accused protesters of being foreign-backed "rioters," "vandals," or even "terrorists" influenced by the US and Israel. Authorities have threatened harsh punishments, including death penalty charges under "enemy of God" accusations.

In response to US President Donald Trump's repeated warnings (e.g., that the US is "locked and loaded" and "stands ready to help" if violence continues), Iranian officials — including Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf and others — have issued strong counter-threats: any US military action would lead to retaliation against US bases, shipping, and Israel (referred to as "occupied territory").

Israel is reportedly on high alert for potential escalation or US intervention. The situation remains highly tense, with ongoing crackdowns, limited verifiable information due to the blackout, and risks of further violence. Numbers may vary slightly across sources due to the communications restrictions, and some reports suggest the toll could be higher.