IRAN PROTEST EXCERLATES DESPITE GOVERNMENT IMPOSOSITION AND INTERNET BLACK OUT

Protests spread across Tehran and other Iranian cities late Thursday into Friday despite a nationwide internet and telephone shutdown imposed by authorities. Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused demonstrators of serving foreign interests and warned of a harsh response as crowds chanted anti-government slogans, including “Death to the dictator.

"State media blamed the unrest on “terrorist agents” linked to the United States and Israel and acknowledged casualties without providing details. The protests, which began on December 28 over economic hardship, have since escalated into the most serious challenge to Iran’s leadership in years, with calls to overthrow the Islamic Republic

Exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi urged Iranians to take to the streets, a move analysts say intensified demonstrations. Human rights groups report at least 42 deaths and more than 2,270 arrests since the unrest began. International concern has grown as former U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran of consequences if peaceful protesters are violently suppressed.