Iran’s top officials have warned of severe punishment for those involved in recent nationwide protests, as tensions continue to escalate across the country. The judiciary chief, Gholam-Hossein Mohseni-Ejei, said the main work of the judiciary has “only just begun” and cautioned that showing undue leniency would be contrary to justice.
Following a meeting with President Masoud Pezeshkian and Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Iranian leaders issued a joint statement pledging strict measures against what they described as “murderers and terrorist agitators.” However, they indicated that some leniency could be shown to those who joined the protests under alleged foreign provocation.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has acknowledged that several thousand people were killed in the protests that began in Tehran on December 28, though authorities have blamed the deaths on “foreign agents.” Thousands have already been arrested, and the government has announced the confiscation of detainees’ assets to compensate for protest-related damages. State-linked Fars News reported that the assets of a prominent businessman, including café chains and food brands, have been seized. The café of former footballer Voria Ghafouri has also reportedly been confiscated.
Police Chief Ahmadreza Radan said individuals who were “deceived” into joining the protests have been given three days to surrender.
Tensions have further risen after former US President Donald Trump said it was time for an end to Khamenei’s 37-year rule. Iran’s Guardian Council strongly condemned the remark, calling any insult to the Supreme Leader a “red line” for the country’s devout population, with “severe consequences.” Speaker Ghalibaf accused Trump of using his influence to spread chaos and killings in Iran.
The country is currently experiencing a near-total internet blackout. Vice President for Scientific Affairs Hossein Afshin said restrictions might be lifted gradually by the end of the week. Meanwhile, the CEO of mobile operator Irancell has been dismissed for failing to comply with government directives on information control. Authorities have also seized the daily newspaper Ham-Mihan for publishing reports on the protests.
As Iran tightens its grip on dissent, the crackdown, digital restrictions, and escalating rhetoric are deepening fears of prolonged instability and a further deterioration of civil freedoms.
