Iranian state television has, for the first time, addressed the recent wave of protests, accusing “terrorist agents” linked to the United States and Israel of inciting violence and setting fires during demonstrations. The brief report, aired during the 8 a.m. broadcast, claimed the unrest resulted in casualties but offered no further details.
According to the report, private vehicles, motorcycles, public infrastructure—including metro facilities, fire trucks, and buses—were set ablaze during the protests. Human rights groups, however, allege that Iranian security forces used live fire against demonstrators as authorities intensified a crackdown.
At least 45 people have been killed and more than 2,260 detained so far, according to human rights agencies. On Thursday night, a nationwide internet blackout was reported amid renewed tensions in Tehran, following calls for mass demonstrations by exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi. The unrest comes after nearly two weeks of protests fueled by economic hardship.
