After two weeks of violent unrest, protests in Iran have largely subsided, according to reports. International phone services have been restored, although internet access remains restricted in several areas.
A US-based human rights organization claims that at least 2,403 protesters have been killed during the demonstrations. Meanwhile, Iranian intelligence authorities said they had confiscated American-made explosives and weapons from multiple homes.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi stated that Iran is prepared to respond if the US attempts any military action. He emphasized that the government had recognized legitimate protests against economic hardships and had been in discussions with demonstrators regarding relief. Araghchi accused external actors, particularly former US President Donald Trump, of attempting to escalate the situation violently to create a pretext for foreign military intervention.
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“We have evidence of terrorist agents receiving orders from abroad. We do not believe the US is genuinely ready for fair negotiations,” he said.
Araghchi also criticized the German Chancellor, reacting to comments on human rights. “Berlin is the worst place to lecture on human rights. Germany remained silent during the kidnapping of Venezuela’s president and the 70,000 deaths in Gaza. They should feel shame,” he said.
The end of widespread protests marks a temporary return to normalcy in Iran, but the situation remains tense. Analysts warn that the underlying grievances related to economic hardship and political freedom may continue to fuel unrest if left unaddressed.
Iranian authorities maintain that the confiscation of explosives and weapons reflects efforts to prevent further escalation. Meanwhile, international observers continue to monitor human rights conditions and call for accountability for those killed during the unrest.
As Iran stabilizes, attention remains focused on the potential involvement of foreign actors and the ongoing need for dialogue between the government and its citizens to prevent future violence.
