- January 11, 2026
- 6:10 pm
- Middle East
The escalation of protests in Iran is reaching a new level and increasingly affecting not only the internal situation in the country but also the regional and international agenda. According to human rights organizations, the number of deaths has already reached 116 people, and about 2600 protest participants have been detained.
The Iranian authorities are simultaneously increasing pressure within the country and demonstrating readiness for a tough external response. This combination makes the situation particularly alarming for neighboring states and key global players.
One of the key factors of uncertainty has been the massive internet and communication shutdown. The informational isolation seriously complicates independent assessment of the situation and heightens fears that security forces may act without external oversight and with minimal reputational costs.
International Signals and Political Rhetoric
The reaction from abroad was not long in coming. U.S. President Donald Trump publicly expressed support for the protesters, stating readiness to help the Iranian people in their quest for “freedom.” This signal was perceived in Tehran as direct pressure and interference in the country’s internal affairs.
The response from the Iranian leadership was extremely tough. The Speaker of Parliament Mohammad-Bagher Ghalibaf stated that in the event of an attack by the U.S., American military and Israel would be considered “legitimate targets.” According to him, Iran will not limit itself to symbolic steps if it feels a direct threat to its security.
This rhetoric underscores that the internal crisis in Iran is increasingly intertwined with foreign policy confrontation.
Hardline Course Within the Country
On the domestic front, the authorities make it clear that they do not plan to compromise. Ghalibaf specifically emphasized the intention to strictly punish all arrested protest participants, stating that society must be prepared for decisive state actions.
This message is addressed not only to the protesters but to the entire country: a signal that further pressure will increase, and the space for dialogue remains minimal.
How the Situation Developed
As of January 7, it was reported that there were 35 dead and more than 1200 detained, but within a few days, the numbers increased significantly. On January 8, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Ukraine recommended its citizens leave Iran due to the rapidly deteriorating situation and security risks.
By January 11, the topic of Iranian protests reached the level of closed consultations among allies. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed possible U.S. action scenarios regarding Iran. Meanwhile, in Jerusalem, it was made clear that Israel does not seek to directly participate in possible intervention.
A Point of Tension for the Entire Region
Iran remains in a state of acute internal crisis, which increasingly affects regional security. The rising number of casualties, informational blockade, harsh statements towards the U.S. and Israel, and parallel diplomatic consultations create a dangerous combination where any wrong move could lead to a sharp escalation.
Against this backdrop, the international community is closely monitoring the developments, understanding that it is not only about the fate of the protests but also about the broader balance of power in the Middle East. In this context, NAnews β News of Israel | Nikk.Agency notes: the crisis in Iran has ceased to be solely an internal matter and is increasingly becoming a factor of global instability.
