Tehran(The COW News Digital)Iran’s security crackdown on anti-government protests has intensified after the country’s police chief issued a three-day ultimatum to demonstrators, warning of strict legal action if they fail to surrender to authorities.
Speaking during a televised address, Iran’s national police chief, Ahmad Reza Radan, instructed individuals involved in ongoing protests to hand themselves over within three days. He warned that once the deadline expires, law enforcement agencies will act with full force under the law.
Radan attempted to draw a distinction between different groups participating in the demonstrations. He said that young people who joined the protests due to “misguidance or deception” would not be treated as enemies of the state if they voluntarily surrender within the given timeframe. According to him, authorities may show leniency toward those who cooperate early.
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However, the police chief made it clear that such concessions would not apply after the deadline. “Once the grace period ends, the law will be enforced with complete severity,” he said, signaling a zero-tolerance approach toward continued dissent.
The ultimatum comes amid widespread protests that erupted in late December, initially driven by public anger over rising inflation, unemployment, and worsening economic conditions. What began as localized demonstrations quickly spread across multiple cities, evolving into nationwide unrest.
Analysts describe the protests as one of the most serious challenges faced by Iran’s leadership in recent years, reflecting deep public frustration over economic mismanagement and declining living standards. Despite repeated warnings from authorities, demonstrations have continued in several urban centers.
Iranian state media has portrayed the protests as being influenced by foreign actors, a claim frequently made by officials during periods of unrest. At the same time, international media and human rights organizations have raised concerns over the government’s response, citing reports of mass arrests, internet restrictions, and the use of force against protesters.
Security forces have increased their presence in major cities, while authorities have tightened control over public gatherings. Observers say the latest ultimatum suggests that the government is preparing for a more aggressive phase of enforcement if protests persist.
The situation has drawn international attention, with calls from global rights groups urging restraint and respect for the right to peaceful assembly. Iranian officials, however, maintain that restoring order is a national priority and that protests threaten public security.
As the three-day deadline approaches, uncertainty looms over how protesters will respond and whether the ultimatum will lead to a reduction in unrest or further escalation. The coming days are expected to be critical in shaping the next phase of Iran’s internal crisis.
