Demonstrations in Iran have become a big problem for the government. They started because of a bad economy and a falling currency value. Security forces are strongly stopping the protests. They have also cut off the internet for many days. This makes it hard to know what is happening.
Reports say security forces used weapons like pellet guns and real bullets. Many people have been hurt. Injured protesters are afraid to go to the hospital. They worry about being arrested. This fear makes their injuries worse.
The protests began in late December. People are unhappy about high prices and the weak Iranian currency. Now, protesters are also calling for Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei to step down. This is a serious challenge to the government. The government sees this as a threat.
To stop the protests, Iran has blocked the internet. This isolation makes it difficult for people inside and outside the country to get information. Reports from inside Iran describe violence. Human rights groups say many protesters have died. However, the Iranian government says fewer security personnel have died.
Some reports suggest that parts of Iran's own security forces have not joined the violence. This could mean there are problems within the government. The government calls the protests "riots" and blames outside countries.
Other countries are watching closely. An exiled leader wants more international help. He asks for sanctions and help with internet access. The US government has warned Iran about continuing the violence. Allies in the region are also trying to reduce tension. The protests on the streets have decreased. However, people are still unhappy. The long-term effects of the crackdown are not yet clear.