Iran Protests Death Toll Passes 2,500 as State Plans Mass Funeral in Tehran

Iran’s nationwide protests have now turned deadly on a massive scale. Rights groups say more than 2,500 people have been killed so far, as the government prepares a mass funeral in Tehran for hundreds of those who died during the unrest.

While demonstrations appear to be slowing in some areas, the political tension inside and outside Iran is anything but quiet.

Death toll climbs as funeral announced

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) says at least 2,403 protesters have been killed, including 12 children. Add to that 147 security personnel and government supporters, plus nine bystanders, and the total death toll reaches 2,559.

Iranian state television confirmed that a mass funeral for 300 people will take place at Tehran University, covering both protesters and members of the security forces.

The Iranian government has not released its own official death figures.

From economic anger to calls for change

What began as protests over Iran’s worsening economy quickly turned into something bigger. Demonstrations have spread across all 31 provinces, with chants and rallies now openly calling for regime change.

Authorities have blamed the unrest on foreign interference, accusing the US and Israel of fueling violence. Officials have warned there will be “no leniency” for what they describe as foreign-backed rioters.

Internet blackout clouds the real picture

Tracking what’s happening on the ground has become harder. Iran imposed an almost total internet shutdown, forcing rights groups to rely on citizen reports and limited online access.

One political observer inside Iran, speaking anonymously, described the situation as overwhelming.

“Everyone’s mental health is seriously damaged,” he said. “It’s a never-ending nightmare.”

He added that protests on Tuesday night and Wednesday appeared smaller than in previous days, suggesting some slowdown — though fear and tension remain high.

The same source confirmed reports of drones flying over Tehran to detect Starlink satellite dishes, which some residents are using to bypass the blackout.

Trump ramps up pressure on Tehran

US President Donald Trump has taken a hard public line. He has repeatedly condemned Iran’s leadership over the killings and urged Iranians to continue protesting and take over state institutions, saying “help is on its way.”

When pressed on what that help might look like, Trump told reporters they would “have to figure that out.” Military action, he said, is still an option.

Trump has also cancelled meetings with Iranian officials and warned that those responsible for the violence would “pay a very big price.”

Iran’s mission to the UN hit back, accusing the US of inciting violence and threatening force. It also said both the US and Israel bear responsibility for civilian deaths.

Talks, threats, and mixed signals

Despite the heated rhetoric, backchannel communication appears to be alive.

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran is ready for war but open to dialogue, confirming ongoing contact with US special envoy Steve Witkoff before and after the protests began.

He warned against efforts to drag Washington into conflict “to serve Israel’s interests,” while urging the US to choose diplomacy.

Meanwhile, Iran has warned regional countries that it would strike US military bases in their territory if the US launches an attack.

Regional and global reactions

Several countries have called for calm — without directly wading into Iran’s internal crisis.

• China said it opposes outside interference and does not condone the use or threat of force.

• Qatar’s Prime Minister expressed support for de-escalation and peaceful solutions during talks with Iranian officials.

• The UAE’s Sheikh Abdullah bin Zayed held a call with Araghchi, who claimed “calm has prevailed” and stressed Iran’s determination to defend its sovereignty.

• Turkey’s Foreign Minister Hakan Fidan pushed for negotiations, calling dialogue essential to easing regional tensions.

What happens next?

While street protests may be shrinking for now, the numbers tell a grim story. Thousands are dead, the internet is dark, and pressure is building from all sides.

Whether this moment leads to talks, deeper isolation, or something far more dangerous remains the big unanswered question.