Tehran, Iran — Iran has been placed on high alert as the government faces its massive wave of anti-government demonstrations.
Iranian authorities say they are intensifying security operations as thousands of protesters continue to rally against the country’s current regime.
The demonstrations began in late December last year, and have continued to escalate over the past two weeks this year.
What started as protests over soaring prices and worsening economic conditions has since evolved into broader calls to end clerical rule, which has governed Iran since 1979.
According to the Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA), death toll climbed to 544 during the protest, while more than 10,600 people have been arrested nationwide over the two week span.
The agency says protests have spread across 186 cities throughout the country.
IRAN WARNS RETALIATION IF US INTERVENES
The alert also escalated after United States President Donald Trump issued repeated public statements on his military intentions against the Iran government.
Over the weekend, Trump posted on his Truth Social platform expressing support for the protesters and saying the United States is ready to help.
This is not the first time Trump has hinted at possible involvement in Iran.
In response, Iranian leaders warned they would retaliate if the United States interferes.
“And with all these clear confessions that you made about invading Iran, we will not limit ourselves to a reaction. We will act based on signs of threats,” said Mohammad Bager Qalibaf, Iranian Parliament Speaker.
On the other hand, several groups internationally from the US, Canada, and Germany among others also demonstrated in solidarity for the Iranian people.
As of today, Iran continues to enforce widespread internet shutdowns and communication restrictions.