Iranian demonstrators drew hope from President Trump’s vocal support as government forces violently suppressed nationwide protests that killed over 6,300 people across 200 cities.
Protesters Find Hope in Trump’s Words
A 25-year-old medical researcher from Isfahan described witnessing brutal scenes during the January demonstrations. Despite seeing blood in the streets and hearing screams, protesters maintained optimism. “We are going to win,” they chanted. “We have America with us.” Trump encouraged Iranians to “keep protesting” and promised “help is on its way.” He threatened strong action against executions, later claiming his pressure prevented hundreds of deaths.
The protests began in late December as inflation soared and living costs became unbearable. Demonstrations expanded beyond economic grievances to challenge religious authorities and social restrictions. Protesters sought to overthrow a government they viewed as brutal and internationally isolated, using coercion to maintain power while impoverishing citizens through militant policies.
Unprecedented Scale and Diversity
January 8-9 marked a turning point when demonstrators answered calls from Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed Shah, to overthrow the government. The Human Rights Activists News Agency documented protests in over 200 cities across all 31 provinces. Unlike previous demonstrations, entire families participated. A 73-year-old retired businesswoman in Tehran observed unprecedented diversity as “everyone had poured out of their homes.”
Growing International Tensions
As a U.S. carrier group moves toward Iran, Trump and Cabinet officials continue threatening strikes unless Tehran agrees to nuclear negotiations. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi indicated readiness for “fair and equitable” talks but excluded defense capabilities from discussions. He rejected negotiations under threat. The government shut down internet access during peak demonstrations and crackdowns, while protesters chanted “Long live the Shah” and “Down with Khamenei,” sometimes burning Revolutionary Guard vehicles and buildings.