A surge of protests in Iran has led to a staggering death toll, with estimates ranging from thousands to over 16,500, as the government brutally suppresses dissent.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has acknowledged the loss of life while placing blame on foreign interference, particularly targeting U.S. President Donald Trump, whom he labels a "criminal."
Amid the chaos, Trump has swiftly responded with calls for regime change, labeling Khamenei a "sick man" and emphasizing the need for new leadership to address the plight of the Iranian people.
The Iranian authorities have intensified their crackdown, with reports of executions and allegations of a "genocide" against protesters, particularly among vulnerable ethnic minority communities.
International reactions vary, with calls for intervention from U.S. officials and expressions of solidarity from celebrities, creating a complex backdrop to the unfolding crisis.
Widespread unrest highlights deep-seated issues within Iran, revealing a nation grappling with economic hardship, political repression, and a growing demand for freedom and reform amidst escalating tensions.