Iran has doubled down amidst increasingly violent protest. Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei, the head of the judiciary, ominously threatens that those arrested in the widespread protests may be subjected to speedy trials and even executions. These protests, starting in late December, were a result of long-standing social and economic frustrations made worse by Western sanctions. The environment has exploded, with evidence of a dramatic uptick in violence, resulting in tragic deaths of thousands of demonstrators and dozens of security forces.
The protests have increased the ongoing slaughter’s toll to an unprecedented height. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has documented the deaths of at least 2,403 protesters, among them 12 minors. Mohseni-Ejei underscored the importance of accountability for those who are committing unlawful violence against civilians. He urged us that we all should be moving faster to make sure that justice is done. This announcement comes at a time when geopolitical tensions are already increasing with Iran. It comes on the heels of missile attacks on Al Udeid, the US’s largest base in the Middle East which were themselves a response to US airstrikes on Iranian nuclear sites.
Escalating Protests and Government Response
The protests in Iran have turned into an expanding, open, and dynamic battlefront as they continue to spread and amplify. Originally ignited by social and economic grievances, these protests have combined to form a massive, broader anti-government uprising. According to media accounts, protests have swelled in size and violence. This rise is the result of the people’s resentment towards the country’s foreign interference and, by extension, their domestic policies.
Mohseni-Ejei’s remarks about expedited trials are an unmistakable message of a draconian response to anti-regime dissent. He remarked on the necessity of prompt judicial action, stating:
“If we want to do a job, we should do it now. If we want to do something, we have to do it quickly.” – Gholamhossein Mohseni-Ejei
This approach underscores a shift towards harsher measures as the Iranian government grapples with public unrest while attempting to maintain order.
Judicial actions aren’t the only thing to consider here. A current nationwide internet shutdown that has exceeded 132 hours has drastically limited the communication and organizing options available to protestors. The government has already been forced to respond to intense outcry over its overly aggressive strategy. These actions have reportedly resulted in the deaths of 147 security forces and government supporters and nine innocent civilians who were not part of the protests.
Geopolitical Tensions with the United States
Amidst the domestic turmoil, Iran’s government has issued stern warnings to its regional allies regarding potential US military actions. Tehran has communicated to countries like Saudi Arabia and the UAE that US bases within their borders could be targeted should Washington escalate its military involvement against Iran. A senior Iranian official remarked on this precarious situation:
“Tehran has told regional countries… that US bases in those countries will be attacked if [the] US targets Iran.” – Senior Iranian official
Iranian officials made clear that they will respond decisively to any threats real or imagined from the United States. They argue that an attack would be “catastrophic” for both regional stability and international security.
Iran’s Deputy Foreign Minister, Abbas Araqchi, has been very publicly negotiating in the trenches. He’s working with other officials from the UAE and Turkey to strengthen regional solidarity against potential US aggression. Ali Larijani, head of Iran’s top security body, has reached out to foreign leaders in an effort to navigate this increasingly volatile landscape.
International Reactions and Calls for Reform
The international community should continue to scrutinize and respond to Iran’s domestic turmoil and consequences that extend beyond its borders. As demonstrated by human rights advocates, the violent repression of these protests has been brutal. Jean-Noel Barrot, a prominent figure in human rights advocacy, stated:
“What we suspect is that this is the most violent repression in Iran’s contemporary history and that it must absolutely stop.” – Jean-Noel Barrot
Iran is at a fateful crossroads as it contends with escalating internal dissent and external pressure. How the judiciary and government choose to act will deeply shape the implications for the future of this country. The bad faith cries for speedy trials serve to intimidate dissent. They amplify concerns over a growing tide of human rights abuses.
