Iranian Protests Escalate as Security Forces Attack Hospitals and Cities Fall to Demonstrators
TEHRAN, Iran — Iran is facing a critical moment as nationwide protests deepen, with demonstrators reportedly taking control of the cities of Abdanan and Malekshahi in Ilam province. The unrest, now entering its tenth day, has seen Iranian security forces escalate their crackdown, including firing tear gas inside hospitals and targeting wounded protesters.
The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) confirmed that protesters have effectively “taken over” Abdanan and Malekshahi, celebrating in the streets while chanting “Death to Khamenei!” This marks a significant shift in the dynamics of the demonstrations, which began as economic protests but have evolved into a broader anti-regime movement. Ali Safavi, a spokesperson for the NCRI, noted that despite the regime’s harsh repression, the fear that once kept citizens subdued appears to be diminishing as suppressive forces retreat.
Reports from human rights organizations highlight the severity of the government’s response. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) has documented at least 29 deaths and over 1,200 arrests since the protests began. Security forces have employed pellet guns, tear gas, and direct assaults to quell the unrest. Amnesty International condemned the attack on Imam Khomeini Hospital in Ilam province, where tear gas was reportedly fired at injured protesters seeking medical care. Such actions violate international law protecting medical facilities and patients, according to Amnesty’s statement.
Similar incidents have been reported in Tehran, where security forces entered Sina Hospital, causing panic among patients and families. The targeting of hospitals underscores the regime’s determination to suppress dissent by any means necessary.
The protests have spread across dozens of cities and provinces, encompassing strikes, street gatherings, and student demonstrations. Economic hardship remains a central grievance, with many Iranians protesting against currency collapse, inflation, and widespread poverty. Major commercial hubs, including parts of Tehran’s Grand Bazaar and Mashhad, have seen partial or full closures as merchants join the strikes.
In a striking development, protesters have issued a direct appeal to former U.S. President Donald Trump, holding signs that read, “Trump, a symbol of peace. Don’t let them kill us.” This plea reflects the protesters’ desperation and hope for international attention and support amid escalating violence at home.
Maryam Rajavi, president-elect of the NCRI, praised the courage of those in Malekshahi and Abdanan for driving regime enforcers into retreat. The movement’s expansion and the seizure of cities indicate a potential turning point in Iran’s political landscape.
The United States government has previously expressed concern over human rights violations in Iran. The U.S. Department of State’s 2025 Human Rights Report on Iran details ongoing abuses by Iranian authorities. Meanwhile, Amnesty International’s condemnation aligns with the organization’s ongoing monitoring of the situation.
As the demonstrations continue, the international community watches closely. The United Nations has mechanisms to address violations of international law, including attacks on medical facilities, though concrete actions remain to be seen.
Iran’s protests, driven by a combination of economic despair and political frustration, have reached a critical juncture. The seizure of cities and the bold defiance of security forces signal a populace increasingly willing to challenge the regime’s authority despite severe repercussions. The coming days will be crucial in determining whether this unrest can translate into lasting change or will be met with further repression.
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