US-Iran tensions escalate as Trump pledges support for protesters, Khamenei threatens execution

Tehran (The Uttam Hindu): Anti-government protests are steadily intensifying in Iran . Discontent against the regime is growing across the country, and large numbers of people are taking to the streets and shouting slogans. Incidents of arson have also been reported at several locations. These protests, which began on December 28, have now taken a violent turn. Several clashes have erupted between protesters and security forces, resulting in the deaths of 116 people and the arrest of thousands.

Meanwhile, the regime led by Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned of further crackdowns against protesters. Iran's Attorney General, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, has vowed to severely punish those involved in the protests. He warned that protesters will be considered "enemies of God" and could face the death penalty.

Khamenei threatens to execute protesters, Trump says Iran is moving towards freedom… America ready to help: According to Bloomberg report, Iran has severe punishment for such crimes. A statement broadcast on Iranian state television said that those helping the rioters will also face the same charges. Under Article 186 of Iranian law, if a group or organization engages in armed resistance against the Islamic Republic, all its members or supporters who knowingly assist its objectives can be considered 'Mohareb', i.e. enemies of God, even if they did not directly participate in armed activities. Article 190 provides for extremely harsh punishments for Mohareb, which include hanging, public execution, mutilation, or permanent exile.

The protests, which have been ongoing for the past few days, escalated on Thursday, prompting the government to shut down internet services nationwide. The internet shutdown has cut Iranian citizens off from international online services. According to the Associated Press, at least 116 people have died and more than 2,600 have been detained in these protests so far.

The protests, which began in Tehran, have now spread to several provinces across the country. According to Bloomberg, several deaths have been confirmed during demonstrations in Chaharmahal and Bakhtiari, Ilam, Kermanshah, and Fars provinces. Several protesters have also been reported killed in the capital, Tehran.

Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump is continuing to exert pressure amid growing protests in Iran. In a post on Truth Social, Trump said that Iran is perhaps moving towards greater freedom than ever before, and that the US is ready to help. Trump's comments came after Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused him of having his hands stained with the blood of Iranian citizens.