Tehran, Jan 11 (V7N) — The Iranian government has adopted an increasingly hardline stance to suppress widespread protests and violence across the country, imposing an internet shutdown, deploying large numbers of security forces, and allegedly using lethal force against demonstrators.

According to opposition sources and unverified reports circulating online, at least 2,000 people may have been killed over the past 48 hours, though the Iranian authorities have not confirmed the figures. The country remains largely cut off from the outside world due to the nationwide internet blackout.

Scenes from various parts of Iran appear similar, with security forces firing on protesters, particularly after the communications shutdown. Members of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and other security units have reportedly been deployed in large numbers across major cities.

Despite the crackdown, protests have continued. On Saturday night, thousands of people reportedly gathered in Tehran and other major cities, chanting slogans in favor of the monarchy and against the current regime. In response, Iran’s military announced that it would protect national sovereignty, infrastructure, and public property at any cost.

At the same time, pro-government supporters also staged counter-protests, accusing unnamed foreign forces of attempting to destabilize Iran under the guise of popular demonstrations. They vowed to resist what they described as violence and chaos.

The situation has drawn strong international attention, particularly from the United States. According to The New York Times, former US President Donald Trump, in a post on social media, reiterated his support for Iranian protesters and indicated that initial discussions had taken place regarding a possible military operation, though no official decision has been announced.

US media also reported that Secretary of State Marco Rubio held discussions with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu regarding the unfolding crisis in Iran.

Meanwhile, the escalating unrest has disrupted air travel. Several international carriers, including Turkish Airlines, Qatar Airways, and Austrian Airlines, have suspended flights to Iran due to security concerns.

The situation remains volatile, with conflicting claims emerging amid restricted access to independent verification.

END/SMA/AJ