Iran Warns Against Potential US Involvement as Protest Death Toll Tops 500
Live Updates:
- Internet Blackout Enters Fourth Day: Iranians are facing another day without internet access after authorities cut off access and telephone lines over 84 hours ago. Cybersecurity watchdog NetBlocks confirms the nationwide shutdown.
- Starlink Providing Internet Access: Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service is reportedly being used to provide internet access to Iranians.
- Death Toll and Arrests: At least 544 people have been killed, including 483 protesters and eight children, according to the Human Rights Activist New Agency (HRANA). Over 10,681 people have been arrested and transferred to prisons.
- US Role and Negotiations: President Donald Trump says Iran called him to negotiate, expressing fatigue with US interference. The US administration is weighing potential military options for intervention.
- Basij Paramilitary Force: Iran's Basij force, a volunteer paramilitary group, is deployed to suppress protests. They have a history of violent quashing of dissent and have been sanctioned by the US for human rights violations.
- International Response: China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs criticizes the US for interference in Iran's internal affairs, emphasizing the importance of sovereignty and security.
- Pro-Regime Rallies: Large crowds have gathered in support of the Iranian regime, chanting slogans like 'Death to America' and 'Death to Khamenei'.
- Protesters' Risks: Iranian protesters face risks of death from security forces and legal repercussions for vandalism, with the punishment of 'moharebeh' (waging war against God) carrying the death penalty.
- Disturbing Footage: CNN gathers footage of funerals and grieving families, showing mourners chanting anti-government slogans and searching for loved ones among bodies at forensic medical centers.
