Protesters in Iran defied a deadly government crackdown on Saturday night, taking to the streets despite reports suggesting hundreds of people have been killed or wounded by security forces in the past three days.
Verified videos and eyewitness accounts seen by the BBC indicated the government's response was intensifying, amid a severe internet blackout.
Iran's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, declared that those protesting would be deemed enemies of God, a crime punishable by death.
Hundreds of protesters are estimated to have been killed or injured since the protests began over two weeks ago, with many detained.
Initially sparked by soaring inflation, the protests have since expanded to over 100 cities and towns across Iran, with demonstrators calling for the end of the clerical leadership under Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
The government has implemented stringent internet restrictions to quell unrest, and current shutdowns are reported to be more severe than previous crackdowns. The expert said that internet access in Iran is almost completely down. The BBC, like most international news outlets, struggles to report from inside Iran due to these restrictions.
Videos shared with the BBC reveal protesters occupying streets in Tehran's Gisha district, and clashes occurring on Vakil Abad Boulevard in Mashhad, with gunshots and conflict evident in the clips. Other footage highlights the protesters' demands for an end to clerical rule, marked by chants and demonstrations in popular districts.
On the international front, US President Trump expressed support for the protesters, stating via social media that "Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before," and that the USA stands ready to help. However, details on potential military action remain sparse, with reports indicating no immediate threat.
Amnesty International confirmed it is investigating reports of the unlawful use of lethal force against protesters, while media outlets like BBC Persian have verified a high number of casualties in hospitals across Iran.
Eyewitness accounts describe chaotic and heartbreaking scenes in hospitals, highlighting the tragic losses among the youth, with many reported dead upon arrival.
This wave of protests marks the most significant civil unrest in Iran since the upheaval in 2022 following the death of Mahsa Amini, which saw thousands detained and significant fatalities.
