DUBAI, Jan 28: A month after protests erupted in Iran, concerns over a potential U.S. strike are growing across the Middle East.
The unrest, sparked by the fall of the rial on December 28, quickly spread nationwide and was met with a violent crackdown.
Activists report at least 6,221 deaths, including 5,858 protesters, 214 government forces, 100 children, and 49 civilians, with more than 42,300 arrests.
Iran’s government claims a lower toll of 3,117 and labels many protesters as “terrorists.”
Amid escalating tensions, Iranian officials reached out to regional powers to avoid further conflict.
Saudi Arabia and the UAE pledged not to allow their airspace to be used for attacks against Iran.
Egypt’s foreign minister engaged with Iran and the U.S. to promote stability, while Iran also held talks with Qatar.
US forces have moved the USS Abraham Lincoln and several missile destroyers into the region, though President Trump has set red lines regarding mass killings and executions.
Iran continues to suppress dissent, executing alleged spies for Israel and maintaining tight media control while blocking the internet.
Iranians report fear, anger, and economic hardship as protests are quelled and international tensions rise.
Diplomacy remains fragile, with all sides seeking to avoid wider regional escalation. (AP)
