Iran’s national police chief gave protesters deemed to have joined “riots” three days to surrender or face harsh legal action, while promising leniency to those described as “deceived” youths who turn themselves in.
The government also pledged to address economic hardships that triggered the unrest, even as it vowed to decisively punish those it labeled as instigators of “terrorist incidents.”
Rights groups, however, said the crackdown has been severe, with Iran Human Rights reporting at least 3,428 protesters killed and warning the true toll could be far higher amid an ongoing internet shutdown.
The United Nations expressed alarm that executions are being used as a tool of intimidation, as concerns grow over mass arrests and possible capital punishment for demonstrators.
Iranian officials said internet access would gradually be restored, while regional leaders, including Turkey’s President Recep Tayyip Erdogan, urged dialogue and diplomacy to prevent wider instability.
Source: PhilNews24 | January 20, 2026
