Iran Protests: Mass Killings and Live Fire Response
- videos and eyewitness accounts reviewed by Iran International showed crowds gathering after dark in Tehran, Isfahan, Mashhad, Tabriz and other cities despite gunfire, blocked roads and widespread disruptions...
- Eyewitnesses in Tehran described demonstrators regrouping after nightfall in multiple neighborhoods, blocking major roads, setting fire to police vehicles, and chanting anti-government slogans as security forces attempted to...
- In Isfahan, video verified by Iran International showed a large crowd chanting "
videos and eyewitness accounts reviewed by Iran International showed crowds gathering after dark in Tehran, Isfahan, Mashhad, Tabriz and other cities despite gunfire, blocked roads and widespread disruptions to communications. The demonstrations followed massive rallies the previous night that was described as among the largest since the unrest began.
Eyewitnesses in Tehran described demonstrators regrouping after nightfall in multiple neighborhoods, blocking major roads, setting fire to police vehicles, and chanting anti-government slogans as security forces attempted to disperse crowds. Chants of “Death to the dictator” and “Neither Gaza nor lebanon, my life for Iran” echoed through the capital, while car horns blared continuously in what witnesses described as coordinated acts of defiance.
In Isfahan, video verified by Iran International showed a large crowd chanting “Khamenei is a murderer, his rule is illegitimate,” alongside monarchist slogans including “Long live the King.”
In Mashhad, protesters filled major streets chanting “This is the last battle, pahlavi will return,” according to eyewitnesses, as demonstrations continued despite heavy security deployments.
Footage from tabriz showed protesters marching through city streets as the sound of gunfire rang out nearby, while other videos captured demonstrators disabling surveillance cameras and erecting makeshift barricades.
Eyewitness accounts from southern and central cities described similar scenes, with crowds converging on symbolic locations, burning banners and poste
International reactions mounted as protests continued in Iran during the second week of unrest, with governments and organizations expressing concern over violence and calling for restraint. Several airlines suspended flights to Iran amid the escalating crisis.
United Nations Response to Iranian Protests
UN Secretary-General António guterres expressed being “deeply disturbed” by reports of violence in Iran, urging self-reliant investigations and the restoration of communications access. This statement reflects the UN’s concern over the suppression of dissent and potential human rights violations.
On September 22, 2023, Guterres stated, “I am deeply disturbed by the escalating violence in Iran and call on the authorities to exercise restraint.” Source: UN Secretary-General’s Statement
European Union Condemnation of Excessive Force
The European Union condemned any excessive use of force by Iranian authorities and called for restraint in handling the protests. The EU emphasized the importance of respecting fundamental rights, including freedom of expression and peaceful assembly.
In a statement released on September 24, 2023, the EU stated, “The European Union condemns in the strongest terms the excessive use of force by security forces against protesters.” Source: European External Action Service
Joint Statement from France, Britain, and Germany
France, Britain, and Germany issued a joint statement on September 25, 2023, urging Iranian authorities to protect the right to peaceful assembly and to refrain from further violence against protesters. The statement highlighted the need for accountability for those responsible for human rights abuses.
The joint statement read, ”We are deeply concerned by the Iranian authorities’ response to the ongoing protests. We urge the Iranian authorities to respect the right to peaceful assembly.” Source: UK Government
United States Response and Warnings
U.S. President Donald Trump warned Iran against killing protesters and stated that Washington was closely monitoring the situation. the State Department cautioned Tehran not to test U.S. resolve, signaling potential consequences for further escalation of violence. As of January 11, 2026, the Biden governance continues to monitor the situation and has maintained sanctions against Iran.
On September 26,2023,then-President Trump tweeted,”Iran should not be killing its protesters. the world is watching!” Source: U.S. Department of State
Airline Disruptions and Travel Impacts
Several airlines, including Flydubai and Turkish Airlines, cancelled flights to Iran as the unrest intensified, demonstrating the widening international impact of the crisis. these cancellations disrupted travel plans and further isolated Iran.
Flydubai announced on September 27, 2023, the suspension of flights to Tehran until further notice, citing safety concerns. Source: Flydubai Official Website Turkish Airlines followed suit shortly after. Source: Turkish Airlines Official Website