What we know about Iran’s protests and the crackdown

What we know about Iran's protests and the crackdown
January 12, 2026

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What we know about Iran’s protests and the crackdown

Anti-government protests have been rocking Iran for the past two weeks, with hundreds though to have been killed as the regime cracks down on its opponents.

The demonstrations, which began in Tehran on 28 December, were sparked by economic turmoil and fuelled by long-running discontent with the country’s leaders.

On Sunday night, President Donald Trump warned the US was considering “very strong options” to intervene in the country.

Iranian leaders described the demonstrators as a “bunch of vandals”, as supporters took to the streets as part of pro-government marches on Monday.

BBC diplomatic correspondent Caroline Hawley has this analysis.

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