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THE TIMES OF INDIA | Jan 16, 2026, 23:33:44 IST
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Iran Protests Live Updates: Trump 'thanks' Tehran for not hanging protesters
Iran Protests Live Updates: Iran is grappling with one of its most volatile periods of unrest in decades, as protests that erupted over a worsening economic crisis have morphed into a broad-based anti-government movement challenging the ruling theocracy. Demonstrations spread across major cities despite a sweeping internet shutdown imposed by authorities, severely limiting independent verification and cutting millions off from the outside world.
Human rights groups say the crackdown has been brutal. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has reported that more than 2,500 people have been killed and over tens of thousands have been arrested, with hospitals overwhelmed by gunshot victims, including hundreds suffering serious eye injuries. Fears of executions intensified after reports that a young protester arrested in Karaj was scheduled to be put to death, raising alarm over the regime’s use of capital punishment to quell dissent, according to reports by The Guardian.
The unrest has sharply escalated tensions with Washington. US President Donald Trump has alternated between threatening action and signalling restraint, warning Iran against killing or executing protesters while urging demonstrators — whom he called “Iranian patriots” — to keep up the protests, saying “help is on its way.” On Wednesday, Trump said he had been told the killing had stopped and that there were no plans for executions, though he declined to name his sources and said the US would “watch and see,” keeping military options on the table.
International concern continues to mount amid uncertainty on the ground. Iran has accused the US of inciting violence and threatening its sovereignty, while Russia warned against external interference and European powers summoned Iranian ambassadors over the crackdown. Iran’s decision to close its airspace to commercial flights has added to fears of further escalation, as questions persist over the true scale of violence and the country’s political future.
Iran signalled a hardening stance on Wednesday, with senior officials indicating that fast-track trials and executions could soon be carried out against those detained during nationwide protests. At the same time, the Islamic Republic warned that it would retaliate forcefully if the United States or Israel intervened in what Tehran described as its internal affairs. However, Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Wednesday there would not be any "hanging today or tomorrow," despite earlier vows from Tehran to fast-track trials for protesters.
Iran also briefly closed its airspace on Wednesday, allowing only international flights with official permission, citing security concerns, according to the US Federal Aviation Administration.
Human rights groups say the crackdown has been brutal. The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has reported that more than 2,500 people have been killed and over tens of thousands have been arrested, with hospitals overwhelmed by gunshot victims, including hundreds suffering serious eye injuries. Fears of executions intensified after reports that a young protester arrested in Karaj was scheduled to be put to death, raising alarm over the regime’s use of capital punishment to quell dissent, according to reports by The Guardian.
The unrest has sharply escalated tensions with Washington. US President Donald Trump has alternated between threatening action and signalling restraint, warning Iran against killing or executing protesters while urging demonstrators — whom he called “Iranian patriots” — to keep up the protests, saying “help is on its way.” On Wednesday, Trump said he had been told the killing had stopped and that there were no plans for executions, though he declined to name his sources and said the US would “watch and see,” keeping military options on the table.
International concern continues to mount amid uncertainty on the ground. Iran has accused the US of inciting violence and threatening its sovereignty, while Russia warned against external interference and European powers summoned Iranian ambassadors over the crackdown. Iran’s decision to close its airspace to commercial flights has added to fears of further escalation, as questions persist over the true scale of violence and the country’s political future.
Iran signalled a hardening stance on Wednesday, with senior officials indicating that fast-track trials and executions could soon be carried out against those detained during nationwide protests. At the same time, the Islamic Republic warned that it would retaliate forcefully if the United States or Israel intervened in what Tehran described as its internal affairs. However, Iran's foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said Wednesday there would not be any "hanging today or tomorrow," despite earlier vows from Tehran to fast-track trials for protesters.
Iran also briefly closed its airspace on Wednesday, allowing only international flights with official permission, citing security concerns, according to the US Federal Aviation Administration.
23:33 (IST) Jan 16
'Thank you': Trump to Iran for not executing protesters
US President Donald Trump thanked Iran's leadership on Friday after saying Tehran had called off the executions of hundreds of protesters arrested in a brutal crackdown.
"I greatly respect the fact that all scheduled hangings, which were to take place yesterday (Over 800 of them), have been cancelled by the leadership of Iran. Thank you!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social network. (AFP)
"I greatly respect the fact that all scheduled hangings, which were to take place yesterday (Over 800 of them), have been cancelled by the leadership of Iran. Thank you!" Trump wrote on his Truth Social network. (AFP)
21:19 (IST) Jan 16
Iran Protests Live Updates: French-Iranian woman injured in Iran, says French foreign minister
A French-Iranian woman was injured in Iran, France's Foreign Minister Jean-Noel Barrot told AFP and Radio France on Friday, without giving further details about the incident in the country rocked by a deadly protest crackdown.
"She is receiving care today, and we are closely monitoring her situation," Barrot, who spoke to AFP during a visit to Belgrade, said.
He added that France had "made contact with each of one thousand French nationals registered with the embassy in Tehran", managing to "reach a large number of them".
"She is receiving care today, and we are closely monitoring her situation," Barrot, who spoke to AFP during a visit to Belgrade, said.
He added that France had "made contact with each of one thousand French nationals registered with the embassy in Tehran", managing to "reach a large number of them".
20:22 (IST) Jan 16
Pro-Iran rallies held in Jammu and Kashmir
Amid the deadly protests challenging Iran's theocracy and threats by the US to intervene militarily in the country, peaceful demonstrations were taken out at several places in Kashmir in support of the Islamic Republic after the congregational prayers on Friday, officials said.
Several Shia-dominated areas in Srinagar, Pulwama, and Budgam witnessed the demonstrations as the agitators raised slogans in favour of Iran and against the US and Israel, they said.
The demonstrations remained peaceful, the officials said.
On Thursday, activists claimed that the bloody crackdown by the authorities in Iran has killed at least 2,637 people, a week after shutting Iran off from the world following nationwide protests challenging the country’s theocracy.
In Srinagar, rallies were taken out near the Nehru Park in Hassanabad and the Gund Hassi Bhat localities of the city to express solidarity with Iran and its Supreme Leader, Syed Ali Khamenei.
The protesters voiced their support and condemned what they termed “external pressure” and “interference” against Iran.
Carrying placards and banners, the agitators raised slogans in favour of Iran and its leadership, and against the US and Israel.
Similar protests were witnessed at the Main Chowk in Budgam in central Kashmir and the Gangoo area in south Kashmir's Pulwama district. (PTI)
19:10 (IST) Jan 16
Over 3,000 arrested for protests: Iranian media
Around 3,000 people were arrested during the recent protests in Iran, according to security officials cited by the country's Tasnim news agency on Friday.
The 3,000 people detained included "armed individuals and rioters" and "members of terrorist organisations", according to Tasnim, which is considered close to security forces in Iran.
Rights groups have estimated up to 20,000 people have been arrested. (AFP)
19:00 (IST) Jan 16
Iran Protests Live Updates: Canada condemns killing of its citizen in Iran protests
Canadian Minister of Foreign Affairs Anita Anand expressed condolences at the death of a Canadian citizen at the hands of Iranian authorities.
Anand joined the voices across the world that are condemning Iranian brutality in an attempt to douse the anti-regime protests that continue to spread like wildfire.
In a post on X, she said, "I have just learned that a Canadian citizen has died in Iran at the hands of the Iranian authorities. Our consular officials are in contact with the victim's family in Canada and my deepest condolences are with them at this time. Peaceful protests by the Iranian people - asking that their voices be heard in the face of the Iranian regime's repression and ongoing human rights violations - has led the regime to flagrantly disregard human life. This violence must end. Canada condemns and calls for an immediate end to the Iranian regime's violence." (ANI)
17:23 (IST) Jan 16
Baramulla MP Engineer Rashid urges EAM Jaishankar for immediate evacuation of Kashmiri students from Iran
Amid unrest in Iran, Jammu and Kashmir Awami Itihaad Party (AIP) MP Sheikh Abdul Rashid, aka Engineer Rashid, has written a letter to External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar, seeking his urgent intervention for the rescue and safe evacuation of Kashmiri students from the Islamic Republic.
"This is with reference to rescuing hundreds of Kashmiri, mostly students, from various parts of Iran where the situation has deteriorated drastically, and uncertainty unfortunately seems unending," Rashid wrote in the letter.
Engineer Rashid further conveyed the distress of students' families back home, stating, "The families & relatives are very much worried about the fate & safety of their beloved ones... The concerns are genuine, the threat seems real, and your intervention is the only hope for the families."
"Please treat this letter as an 'SOS' call on behalf of the trapped Kashmiris & ensure their safety, including evacuation from various parts of Iran, before it gets too late," the letter added.
15:57 (IST) Jan 16
Iran Protests Live Updates: Russia says Putin in contact with Iran, Israel
Russian President Vladimir Putin on Friday held phone calls with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, the Kremlin said, offering mediation amid large-scale protests in Iran.
"Vladimir Putin held a telephone conversation with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu," the Kremlin announced in a statement, asserting "Russia's readiness to continue its mediation efforts."
The Kremlin's spokesman Dmitry Peskov told journalists that Moscow would announce "the results of our telephone conversation with the Iranian President very soon," adding that Putin "continues his efforts to facilitate de-escalation." (AFP)
15:45 (IST) Jan 16
Iran Protests Live Updates: Switzerland summons Iran ambassador over protest crackdown
Switzerland on Thursday summoned Iran's ambassador in Bern to voice its "greatest concern" over his country's crackdown on nationwide protests, which activists say has left thousands dead, a foreign ministry official said.
With the summons, Switzerland's foreign ministry had wanted to convey that "we don't understand such violence", Monika Schmutz Kirgoz, who heads the ministry's Middle East and North Africa division told the RTS public broadcaster.
The Norway-based Iran Human Rights (IHR) NGO said on Wednesday that Iranian security forces had killed at least 3,428 protesters, warning that the final toll would be far higher.
Iranian authorities have lashed out at "rioters" who they claimed were backed by Israel and the United States, vowing fast-track justice that activists fear will translate into a spree of executions. (AFP)
14:12 (IST) Jan 16
She set a photo afire, lit a cigarette — and became a symbol of resistance for Iran protesters
With one puff of a cigarette, a woman in Canada became a global symbol of defiance against Iran's bloody crackdown on dissent — and the world saw the flame.
A video that has gone viral in recent days shows the woman — who described herself as an Iranian refugee — snapping open a lighter and setting the flame to a photo she holds. It ignites, illuminating the visage of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's highest cleric. Then the woman dips a cigarette into the glow, takes a quick drag — and lets what remains of the image fall to the pavement.
Whether staged or a spontaneous act of defiance — and there’s plenty of debate — the video has become one of the defining images of the protests in Iran against the Islamic Republic’s ailing economy, as U.S. President Donald Trump considers military action in the country again.
The gesture has jumped from the virtual world to the real one, with opponents of the regime lighting cigarettes on photos of the ayatollah from Israel to Germany and Switzerland to the United States.
In the 34 seconds of footage, many across platforms like X, Instagram and Reddit saw one person defy a series of the theocracy’s laws and norms in a riveting act of autonomy. She wears no hijab, three years after the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests against the regime’s required headscarves.
She burns an image of Iran’s supreme leader, a crime in the Islamic republic punishable by death. Her curly hair cascades — yet another transgression in the Iranian government’s eyes. She lights a cigarette from the flame — a gesture considered immodest in Iran.
And in those few seconds, circulated and amplified a million times over, she steps into history.
A video that has gone viral in recent days shows the woman — who described herself as an Iranian refugee — snapping open a lighter and setting the flame to a photo she holds. It ignites, illuminating the visage of Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Iran's highest cleric. Then the woman dips a cigarette into the glow, takes a quick drag — and lets what remains of the image fall to the pavement.
Whether staged or a spontaneous act of defiance — and there’s plenty of debate — the video has become one of the defining images of the protests in Iran against the Islamic Republic’s ailing economy, as U.S. President Donald Trump considers military action in the country again.
The gesture has jumped from the virtual world to the real one, with opponents of the regime lighting cigarettes on photos of the ayatollah from Israel to Germany and Switzerland to the United States.
In the 34 seconds of footage, many across platforms like X, Instagram and Reddit saw one person defy a series of the theocracy’s laws and norms in a riveting act of autonomy. She wears no hijab, three years after the “Women, Life, Freedom” protests against the regime’s required headscarves.
She burns an image of Iran’s supreme leader, a crime in the Islamic republic punishable by death. Her curly hair cascades — yet another transgression in the Iranian government’s eyes. She lights a cigarette from the flame — a gesture considered immodest in Iran.
And in those few seconds, circulated and amplified a million times over, she steps into history.
12:29 (IST) Jan 16
New Zealand shuts embassy in Iran
New Zealand said Friday it has temporarily closed its embassy in Tehran and flown out its diplomats because of worsening security in Iran.
Diplomatic staff left Iran safely on commercial flights overnight, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry said.
The Tehran embassy's operations were moved to Ankara, Turkey, because of the "deteriorating security situation" in Iran.
"We continue to advise against all travel to Iran. Any New Zealanders currently in the country should leave now," the spokesperson said.
The foreign ministry said it had an "extremely limited" ability to give consular help to New Zealanders in Iran.
Severe communication challenges were making it hard for people to get in touch with family and friends in Iran, the ministry spokesperson said, advising New Zealanders there to contact relatives when they can.
Diplomatic staff left Iran safely on commercial flights overnight, a spokesperson for the foreign ministry said.
The Tehran embassy's operations were moved to Ankara, Turkey, because of the "deteriorating security situation" in Iran.
"We continue to advise against all travel to Iran. Any New Zealanders currently in the country should leave now," the spokesperson said.
The foreign ministry said it had an "extremely limited" ability to give consular help to New Zealanders in Iran.
Severe communication challenges were making it hard for people to get in touch with family and friends in Iran, the ministry spokesperson said, advising New Zealanders there to contact relatives when they can.
11:14 (IST) Jan 16
US warns Iran ‘all options on table’ at UN; Tehran denies escalation
At a tense Security Council meeting, the United States warned Iran that “all options are on the table” to halt attacks on protesters, while Tehran said it sought “neither escalation nor confrontation.”
US Permanent Representative Mike Walz, speaking at an emergency session convened at Washington’s request on Thursday, said President Donald Trump was “a man of action” who had made clear that every option remained open to stop what he called the “slaughter” of protesters.
Iran’s Deputy Permanent Representative Gholamhossein Darzi struck a cautious note, reiterating that Tehran did not seek escalation, but warned that “any act of aggression, direct or indirect, will be met with a decisive, proportionate and lawful response.”
Earlier this week, Trump threatened possible action against Iran, saying the US military was examining “very strong options.” On Wednesday, however, he said Tehran had indicated it was halting the planned execution of protesters, a move later confirmed by Iran.
Speaking to NBC on Thursday, Trump claimed, “We saved a lot of lives yesterday.”
US Permanent Representative Mike Walz, speaking at an emergency session convened at Washington’s request on Thursday, said President Donald Trump was “a man of action” who had made clear that every option remained open to stop what he called the “slaughter” of protesters.
Iran’s Deputy Permanent Representative Gholamhossein Darzi struck a cautious note, reiterating that Tehran did not seek escalation, but warned that “any act of aggression, direct or indirect, will be met with a decisive, proportionate and lawful response.”
Earlier this week, Trump threatened possible action against Iran, saying the US military was examining “very strong options.” On Wednesday, however, he said Tehran had indicated it was halting the planned execution of protesters, a move later confirmed by Iran.
Speaking to NBC on Thursday, Trump claimed, “We saved a lot of lives yesterday.”
10:10 (IST) Jan 16
Iran protesters breach blackout: Using smuggled Starlink terminals
Last week, Iran appeared to be under a total communications blackout. Internet and cellular networks were shut down by authorities, halting online banking, shopping, and messaging services. Information about the escalating protests was scarce.
Yet a loose network of activists, developers, and engineers managed to breach Iran’s digital barriers. Using thousands of smuggled Starlink satellite internet systems, they went online and shared images of troops firing on protesters and families searching for bodies.
Experts say these efforts forced a response from the Iranian government. Authorities deployed military-grade electronic weapons to jam the GPS signals that Starlink relies on, a tactic rarely seen outside warzones like Ukraine.
The breach was no accident. Since 2022, activists and civil society groups have been secretly bringing Starlink terminals into Iran, aided by a US sanctions exemption allowing companies to provide communication tools. Today, about 50,000 terminals are in the country, defying Iran’s 2025 law banning such systems and regulations against unlicensed services.
Yet a loose network of activists, developers, and engineers managed to breach Iran’s digital barriers. Using thousands of smuggled Starlink satellite internet systems, they went online and shared images of troops firing on protesters and families searching for bodies.
Experts say these efforts forced a response from the Iranian government. Authorities deployed military-grade electronic weapons to jam the GPS signals that Starlink relies on, a tactic rarely seen outside warzones like Ukraine.
The breach was no accident. Since 2022, activists and civil society groups have been secretly bringing Starlink terminals into Iran, aided by a US sanctions exemption allowing companies to provide communication tools. Today, about 50,000 terminals are in the country, defying Iran’s 2025 law banning such systems and regulations against unlicensed services.
09:30 (IST) Jan 16
Portugal closes Iran embassy over 'tension'
Portugal on Thursday announced a "temporary" closure of its embassy in Tehran, citing a "context of tension", and advised its nationals not to travel to Iran.
Portugal's foreign ministry said in a statement that eight Portuguese citizens had already left Iran, and others were preparing to do the same.
Another 10 Portuguese passport holders, including seven dual nationals, had decided to remain in the country, the ministry said.
The embassy closure was decided Wednesday, a day after the government summoned Iran's ambassador to lodge its protest against the violent repression of demonstrations against the regime, and to urge Tehran to respect the rights of Iranian citizens.
In a separate statement, posted on X, Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said that Portugal was ready to join any concerted tightening of sanctions against Iran by the European Union.
Portugal's foreign ministry said in a statement that eight Portuguese citizens had already left Iran, and others were preparing to do the same.
Another 10 Portuguese passport holders, including seven dual nationals, had decided to remain in the country, the ministry said.
The embassy closure was decided Wednesday, a day after the government summoned Iran's ambassador to lodge its protest against the violent repression of demonstrations against the regime, and to urge Tehran to respect the rights of Iranian citizens.
In a separate statement, posted on X, Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel said that Portugal was ready to join any concerted tightening of sanctions against Iran by the European Union.
08:41 (IST) Jan 16
Threats to Iran spike 'volatility': UN official
A senior UN official warned on Thursday that threats of military action against Iran, like those made by US President Donald Trump, increased "volatility" in the protest-torn country.
Iran was shaken over the last week by some of the biggest anti-government protests in the history of the Islamic republic, although the demonstrations appear to have diminished in the face of repression and a week-long internet blackout.
Until Wednesday, the United States was threatening military action against Iran should it carry out the death penalty against people arrested over the protests -- and Washington's envoy to the UN said Thursday all options were still "on the table."
"We note with alarm various public statements suggesting possible military strikes on Iran. This external dimension adds volatility to an already combustible situation," UN Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee told the UN Security Council.
"All efforts must be undertaken to prevent any further deterioration."
Iran's representative at the meeting Gholamhossein Darzi accused Washington of "exploitation of peaceful protests for geopolitical purposes."
Trump's statements were "aimed at reigniting unrest," he said.
Iran was shaken over the last week by some of the biggest anti-government protests in the history of the Islamic republic, although the demonstrations appear to have diminished in the face of repression and a week-long internet blackout.
Until Wednesday, the United States was threatening military action against Iran should it carry out the death penalty against people arrested over the protests -- and Washington's envoy to the UN said Thursday all options were still "on the table."
"We note with alarm various public statements suggesting possible military strikes on Iran. This external dimension adds volatility to an already combustible situation," UN Assistant Secretary-General Martha Pobee told the UN Security Council.
"All efforts must be undertaken to prevent any further deterioration."
Iran's representative at the meeting Gholamhossein Darzi accused Washington of "exploitation of peaceful protests for geopolitical purposes."
Trump's statements were "aimed at reigniting unrest," he said.
08:41 (IST) Jan 16
Oil prices slump after Trump eases concerns over Iran
Oil prices tumbled Thursday after US President Donald Trump moderated his rhetoric on Iran, while US stocks bounced back after two down days.
International oil benchmarks Brent North Sea crude and West Texas Intermediate slumped more than four percent after Trump on Wednesday said he would "watch it and see" on possible intervention in the Islamic republic.
Trump added that he had been told that the killings of protesters there had stopped.
Crude prices had surged over recent days as Trump talked about coming to the aid of the Iranian people over the crackdown on demonstrations, sparking concerns over possible disruption to global supplies.
"As tensions are dialed down between Iran and the US, the political risk premium is rapidly getting priced out of the oil price," said XTB research director Kathleen Brooks.
In stock market trading, a forecast-busting fourth-quarter net profit by Taiwanese chipmaking titan TSMC helped turn around investor sentiment.
The tech-rich Nasdaq piled on more than one percent early in the session behind large gains among leading chip companies.
But later in the day there was "kind of a roll-back in the megacap stock and semiconductors," said Briefing.com analyst Patrick O'Hare.
The weakening of US equities followed remarks from US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicating that semiconductor companies that don't build in the United States could face 100 percent tariffs.
International oil benchmarks Brent North Sea crude and West Texas Intermediate slumped more than four percent after Trump on Wednesday said he would "watch it and see" on possible intervention in the Islamic republic.
Trump added that he had been told that the killings of protesters there had stopped.
Crude prices had surged over recent days as Trump talked about coming to the aid of the Iranian people over the crackdown on demonstrations, sparking concerns over possible disruption to global supplies.
"As tensions are dialed down between Iran and the US, the political risk premium is rapidly getting priced out of the oil price," said XTB research director Kathleen Brooks.
In stock market trading, a forecast-busting fourth-quarter net profit by Taiwanese chipmaking titan TSMC helped turn around investor sentiment.
The tech-rich Nasdaq piled on more than one percent early in the session behind large gains among leading chip companies.
But later in the day there was "kind of a roll-back in the megacap stock and semiconductors," said Briefing.com analyst Patrick O'Hare.
The weakening of US equities followed remarks from US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick indicating that semiconductor companies that don't build in the United States could face 100 percent tariffs.
06:07 (IST) Jan 16
'Grave consequences': White House says Iran 'halted' 800 executions after Trump's warning; ground situation 'monitored'
The United States claimed Iran halted 800 planned executions following pressure from President Donald Trump over Tehran’s crackdown on nationwide protests, even as Washington warned that military action remains an option. “The president understands today that 800 executions that were scheduled and supposed to take place yesterday were halted,” White House Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.
Read full story00:10 (IST) Jan 16
Iran halted 800 protester executions: White House
Iran halted 800 executions following pressure from President Donald Trump over its crackdown on a wave of protests, though the White House said US military action remains an option.
“The president understands today that 800 executions that were scheduled and supposed to take place yesterday were halted,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.
“All options remain on the table for the president,” she said, adding that Trump had warned Tehran of “grave consequences” if the killing of demonstrators continued.
“The president understands today that 800 executions that were scheduled and supposed to take place yesterday were halted,” Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt told reporters on Thursday.
“All options remain on the table for the president,” she said, adding that Trump had warned Tehran of “grave consequences” if the killing of demonstrators continued.
23:55 (IST) Jan 15
Iran internet blackout has lasted a week: monitor
The nationwide shutdown of the internet by authorities in Iran, which activists fear is aimed at masking the true scale of a crackdown on protests, has now lasted a full week, a monitor said Thursday.
"Exactly one week ago... Iran fell into digital darkness as authorities imposed a national internet blackout," Netblocks said in a social media post.
"Exactly one week ago... Iran fell into digital darkness as authorities imposed a national internet blackout," Netblocks said in a social media post.
22:43 (IST) Jan 15
Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv issues advisory amid prevailing situation, advises Indian nationals to avoid all non-essential travel to Israel
The Indian Embassy in Tel Aviv has advised Indian nationals in Israel to remain vigilant, follow safety guidelines issued by Israeli authorities and the Home Front Command, and avoid all non-essential travel to the country amid regional tensions. Emergency helpline numbers have been shared for assistance. The advisory comes as unrest continues in Iran, prompting wider security concerns. India has also reiterated warnings against travel to Iran, urging nationals there to leave using available commercial flights. External affairs minister S Jaishankar has discussed the evolving situation with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. Indian missions in both Israel and Iran have asked citizens to stay cautious, avoid protest areas and remain in contact with embassies.
22:42 (IST) Jan 15
US sanctions Iranian officials accused of repressing protests against government
The United States has announced fresh sanctions against Iranian officials accused of suppressing nationwide protests challenging the country’s theocratic leadership. Those targeted include the secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security, accused of early calls for violence. The Treasury also sanctioned 18 individuals and firms linked to a shadow banking network laundering oil revenues. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington stands with Iranians seeking freedom. Protests erupted in late December over economic collapse and sanctions pressure. While Iran blames foreign-backed violence, President Donald Trump has recently signalled possible de-escalation despite renewed “maximum pressure” measures.
21:22 (IST) Jan 15
US imposes new round of sanctions on Iranian officials accused of repressing protests
The United States has imposed a fresh round of sanctions on senior Iranian officials and financial networks, accusing them of orchestrating a violent crackdown on nationwide protests and laundering billions of dollars to sustain the regime.
The US Treasury Department said the measures target Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security, along with several other senior security officials accused of directing force against peaceful demonstrators. In addition, 18 individuals and entities linked to Iran’s so-called “shadow banking” system have been sanctioned for helping move oil and petrochemical revenues through covert financial channels.
Announcing the action, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington stood “firmly behind the Iranian people in their call for freedom and justice”. He added that, at the direction of President Donald Trump, the US would use every available tool to hold Iranian leaders accountable for human rights abuses and economic exploitation. The sanctions freeze any US-based assets and bar the designated individuals and companies from doing business with Americans, though officials acknowledge the impact is largely symbolic.
According to the Treasury, Larijani was among the first senior figures to publicly call for violence after protests erupted in December 2025 over economic hardship and political repression. US officials accuse Iranian security forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, of firing live ammunition at crowds and attacking wounded protesters in hospitals. Human rights groups say more than 2,600 people have been killed, a figure that could not be independently verified.
Alongside the human rights measures, Washington targeted networks linked to Bank Melli and Shahr Bank, which it says facilitate tens of billions of dollars in trade through front companies in the Gulf, Asia and Europe. The Treasury alleges the funds are used to finance domestic repression and support militant groups abroad rather than address Iran’s deepening economic crisis.
The sanctions come as protests inside Iran appear to have been largely suppressed following mass arrests, internet shutdowns and heavy security deployments.
The US Treasury Department said the measures target Ali Larijani, secretary of Iran’s Supreme Council for National Security, along with several other senior security officials accused of directing force against peaceful demonstrators. In addition, 18 individuals and entities linked to Iran’s so-called “shadow banking” system have been sanctioned for helping move oil and petrochemical revenues through covert financial channels.
Announcing the action, Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent said Washington stood “firmly behind the Iranian people in their call for freedom and justice”. He added that, at the direction of President Donald Trump, the US would use every available tool to hold Iranian leaders accountable for human rights abuses and economic exploitation. The sanctions freeze any US-based assets and bar the designated individuals and companies from doing business with Americans, though officials acknowledge the impact is largely symbolic.
According to the Treasury, Larijani was among the first senior figures to publicly call for violence after protests erupted in December 2025 over economic hardship and political repression. US officials accuse Iranian security forces, including the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, of firing live ammunition at crowds and attacking wounded protesters in hospitals. Human rights groups say more than 2,600 people have been killed, a figure that could not be independently verified.
Alongside the human rights measures, Washington targeted networks linked to Bank Melli and Shahr Bank, which it says facilitate tens of billions of dollars in trade through front companies in the Gulf, Asia and Europe. The Treasury alleges the funds are used to finance domestic repression and support militant groups abroad rather than address Iran’s deepening economic crisis.
The sanctions come as protests inside Iran appear to have been largely suppressed following mass arrests, internet shutdowns and heavy security deployments.
20:42 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: 'Russia, China unlikely to back Iran against US military threats'
Russia and China may voice support for Iran amid unrest and threats from US President Donald Trump, but analysts say both would stop short of backing Tehran in the event of US military action.
Iran is an important partner for Moscow and Beijing, supplying drones to Russia and oil to China, yet experts told AFP that any assistance would remain largely diplomatic or economic.
Analysts noted that neither power wishes to risk a direct confrontation with Washington, prioritising their own strategic interests instead. Russia is focused on maintaining US engagement over Ukraine, while China is seeking to manage its fragile relationship with the Trump administration.
Iran is an important partner for Moscow and Beijing, supplying drones to Russia and oil to China, yet experts told AFP that any assistance would remain largely diplomatic or economic.
Analysts noted that neither power wishes to risk a direct confrontation with Washington, prioritising their own strategic interests instead. Russia is focused on maintaining US engagement over Ukraine, while China is seeking to manage its fragile relationship with the Trump administration.
19:51 (IST) Jan 15
India is preparing contingency plans to evacuate its nationals from Iran amid growing instability and the possibility of US military action against Tehran over its crackdown on protests, as reported by PTI.
Earlier, ministry of external affairs had asked Indians in Iran to leave using available means and to avoid travelling to the country.
Earlier, ministry of external affairs had asked Indians in Iran to leave using available means and to avoid travelling to the country.
19:14 (IST) Jan 15
Saudi, Qatar, Oman convinced Trump to 'give Iran a chance'
Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Oman reportedly urged US President Donald Trump against attacking Iran, warning of serious regional repercussions, a senior Saudi official told AFP. The Gulf nations led a last-minute diplomatic effort to give Iran a chance to demonstrate goodwill. The official added that communications are ongoing to maintain trust and the current positive momentum.
18:10 (IST) Jan 15
Iran airspace closure impacts international flights: IndiGo
Several international IndiGo flights were affected on Thursday following Iran’s sudden airspace closure amid escalating tensions. The airline said it is assessing the situation and assisting impacted passengers with rebooking or refunds. IndiGo expressed regret for the disruption, calling it beyond its control. Earlier, Air India also warned of delays and possible cancellations as flights divert to alternative routes.
17:27 (IST) Jan 15
Chinese foreign minister speaks with Iranian counterpart
China’s foreign minister Wang Yi spoke with his Iranian counterpart Abbas Araghchi, who said the situation in Iran was now stable, according to Beijing. Araghchi expressed hope that China would play a greater role in regional peace. Wang said China opposes coercion and foreign intervention, supports Iran’s stability, and urged restraint and dialogue.
16:54 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: World shares are mixed and oil sinks $3 after Trump says Iran stopped killings
World shares were mixed on Thursday as US futures edged higher following a Wall Street pullback driven by losses in Big Tech stocks. Oil prices slid nearly $3 a barrel after US President Donald Trump said executions in Iran had reportedly been halted, easing market concerns. US crude fell to about $59 a barrel, while Brent dropped to roughly $63. Futures for the S&P 500 and Dow Jones rose modestly. European markets were mostly steady, with gains in London offset by declines in Paris. Asian markets were mixed, with losses in Tokyo and Hong Kong but gains in South Korea and Australia.
16:53 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: Portugal closes Iran embassy over 'tension'
Portugal announced on Thursday the temporary closure of its embassy in Tehran due to a “context of tension” and advised its citizens against traveling to Iran. The foreign ministry said eight Portuguese nationals had already left the country, while others were making arrangements to depart. However, 10 Portuguese passport holders, including seven dual nationals, chose to remain in Iran. The decision followed Wednesday’s summoning of Iran’s ambassador, during which Portugal protested the violent crackdown on anti-regime demonstrations and urged respect for citizens’ rights. Foreign Minister Paulo Rangel also said Portugal was prepared to support tougher EU sanctions on Iran.
15:56 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: Turkey says opposes military operations against Iran
Turkey has said it opposes any military operation against Iran, amid repeated remarks by US President Donald Trump about supporting the Iranian people following a crackdown on protests. Speaking in Istanbul, foreign minister Hakan Fidan said Iran’s genuine problems should be resolved internally and not through military action. He added that the country’s economic grievances had been wrongly portrayed as an uprising against the Islamic Republic. Protests across Iran, which rights groups claim have left at least 3,428 people dead, come as Tehran struggles with an economic crisis worsened by sanctions and the aftermath of the June war with Israel.
15:25 (IST) Jan 15
Iranian airspace closure impacts IndiGo's flights to CIS countries, Europe, Turkiye
IndiGo’s flights to CIS countries, Europe and Turkiye have been affected following the closure of Iranian airspace, an airline official said. IndiGo, which operates a fleet of over 400 aircraft and serves more than 45 international destinations, has seen disruptions to services to Tashkent, Almaty, Baku and Tbilisi, with some flights cancelled. These destinations fall within the Commonwealth of Independent States. Flights to several European cities and Istanbul have also been impacted. In a post on X, IndiGo said it is assessing the situation and assisting affected passengers with alternative arrangements. Air India flights have also been disrupted. Rising tensions between Iran and the US have raised concerns about potential military conflict.
15:14 (IST) Jan 15
Pentagon moving carrier strike group to Middle East amid rising Iran tensions: Reports
The Pentagon has confirmed that it is redeploying a US carrier strike group from the South China Sea to the area covered by US Central Command (CENTCOM), which includes the Middle East, amid escalating tensions between the Trump administration and Iran. The move comes as Iran faces widespread anti-government protests driven by high inflation, economic hardship and public anger over governance, according to US-based broadcaster News Nation.
The strike group, reportedly led by the USS *Abraham Lincoln* and supported by several warships and at least one attack submarine, is expected to take about a week to reach the region. The deployment signals a notable shift in US military posture as unrest grows in Iran and Washington weighs its response. CENTCOM oversees operations across more than 4 million square miles spanning parts of Africa and Asia.
The strike group, reportedly led by the USS *Abraham Lincoln* and supported by several warships and at least one attack submarine, is expected to take about a week to reach the region. The deployment signals a notable shift in US military posture as unrest grows in Iran and Washington weighs its response. CENTCOM oversees operations across more than 4 million square miles spanning parts of Africa and Asia.
13:41 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: Omar Abdullah speaks to Jaishankar on safety of J&K students in Iran
Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah said he spoke to External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar about the situation in Iran. Jaishankar assured that measures are being taken to safeguard the interests and lives of students and others from J&K currently in the country. India has asked all its nationals in Iran to leave by available means and avoid travel as tensions rise over possible US military intervention following Tehran’s crackdown on nationwide protests, which has reportedly killed over 2,500 people.
Parents of Kashmiri students in Iran have appealed to the Centre to bring their children back. Scores of parents also gathered at the Press Enclave in Srinagar, urging the government to intervene, PTI reported.
Parents of Kashmiri students in Iran have appealed to the Centre to bring their children back. Scores of parents also gathered at the Press Enclave in Srinagar, urging the government to intervene, PTI reported.
13:38 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: Iran judiciary says protester Erfan Soltani not sentenced to death
Iran’s judiciary said protester Erfan Soltani, arrested during recent demonstrations, has not been sentenced to death and is not facing charges that carry the death penalty. According to a statement carried by state television, Soltani is imprisoned in Karaj near Tehran and is charged with propaganda against the Islamic system and acting against national security, offences that carry prison terms under Iranian law.
12:02 (IST) Jan 15
Mehbooba Mufti urges Centre to evacuate stranded Indian students from Iran amid volatile situation
10:22 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live Updates: Norway-based Iran Human Rights says more than 3,400 killed and thousands injured in Iran protests
According to Norway-based Iran Human Rights over 3,400 people have been killed and thousands injured amid nationwide unrest in Iran.
09:31 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: UN Security Council to hold briefing on Iran at US request
The UN Security Council will meet on Thursday afternoon to hold a briefing on the situation in Iran, according to a spokesperson for the Somali presidency of the council. The meeting was requested by the United States, amid growing international concern over unrest and escalating tensions involving Iran, reported AFP.
09:22 (IST) Jan 15
"A free Iran will be a force for peace, prosperity, and for partnership" : Reza Pahlavi
08:41 (IST) Jan 15
‘America stands with you’: Senator Ted Cruz voices support for Iranian protesters
08:37 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: S Jaishankar speaks with Iran FM Araghchi on evolving situation amid Iran unrest
08:22 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: Trump says Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi ‘seems very nice’
US President Donald Trump said on Wednesday that Iranian opposition figure Reza Pahlavi “seems very nice” but expressed uncertainty over whether he would be able to gain acceptance and support within Iran to eventually take over leadership. Trump was quoted by Reuters as saying “He seems very nice, but I don't know how he'd play within his own country,” Trump said, adding that the situation had not yet reached that stage. Trump said he did not know whether Iranians would accept Pahlavi’s leadership but noted that “certainly if they would, that would be fine with me".
08:22 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: Iran FM denies imminent executions, says ‘no hanging today or tomorrow’
Iranian foreign minister Abbas Araghchi said there were no plans for executions despite earlier signals of fast-track trials for protesters. Speaking to Fox News, he claimed unrest had subsided after what he described as externally driven violence, insisting the government was not planning hangings.
08:21 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: Iran temporarily closes airspace to most flights; IndiGo, Air India issue advisory
Iran briefly closed its airspace on Wednesday, allowing only international flights with official permission, citing security concerns, according to the US Federal Aviation Administration. The restriction, in place for more than two hours, could be extended, reported Reuters.
The closure came as the US began withdrawing some personnel from Middle East bases after Iran warned it would strike American facilities if Washington attacks. Airlines including IndiGo, Lufthansa and Aeroflot were affected, with several carriers avoiding Iranian airspace amid rising missile and drone risks in the region.
IndiGo said that due to Iran’s sudden airspace closure, some of its international flights have been impacted. While, Air India said that due to the emerging situation in Iran, Air India flights that usually overfly the region are now using alternative routes, which may lead to delays.
The closure came as the US began withdrawing some personnel from Middle East bases after Iran warned it would strike American facilities if Washington attacks. Airlines including IndiGo, Lufthansa and Aeroflot were affected, with several carriers avoiding Iranian airspace amid rising missile and drone risks in the region.
IndiGo said that due to Iran’s sudden airspace closure, some of its international flights have been impacted. While, Air India said that due to the emerging situation in Iran, Air India flights that usually overfly the region are now using alternative routes, which may lead to delays.
08:20 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: UK temporarily closes embassy in Tehran
The British embassy in Iran's capital Tehran has been "temporarily closed", the government in London said on Wednesday. "We have temporarily closed the British Embassy in Tehran, this will now operate remotely," a government spokesperson said. "Foreign Office travel advice has now been updated to reflect this consular change."
08:19 (IST) Jan 15
Iran Protests Live: Trump says killing of protesters ‘is stopping’, claims 'no plans for executions'
Donald Trump said he had been told on “good authority” that Iran had halted the killing of protesters and had no plans for executions. He said Washington was monitoring the situation closely, keeping all options under review even as uncertainty persists over developments inside Iran.
Iran Protests Live Updates: Iran is facing one of its gravest waves of unrest in decades, with widespread protests erupting across major cities and smaller towns, posing a direct challenge to the country’s ruling theocracy. The government responded by imposing sweeping internet and communication shutdowns, cutting millions of Iranians off from the outside world.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 2,571 people have been killed so far, based on data available as of early Wednesday. The protests, which began in late December, were initially triggered by Iran’s worsening economic conditions but have since escalated into overt political dissent.
Rising prices, job losses and economic uncertainty have driven traders, university students and urban residents onto the streets in cities including Tehran, Mashhad and Isfahan. In a significant escalation, protesters have directly targeted Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (86), with graffiti and chants calling for his death.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), at least 2,571 people have been killed so far, based on data available as of early Wednesday. The protests, which began in late December, were initially triggered by Iran’s worsening economic conditions but have since escalated into overt political dissent.
Rising prices, job losses and economic uncertainty have driven traders, university students and urban residents onto the streets in cities including Tehran, Mashhad and Isfahan. In a significant escalation, protesters have directly targeted Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei (86), with graffiti and chants calling for his death.
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