Iran’s top judge vows fast trials and executions of detained protesters as anti-regime call gathers pace

Key Highlights

• The rhetoric escalates fears of further bloodshed after weeks of demonstrations sparked by economic collapse. More from World Trump imposes 25% tariff on countries 'doing business' with Iran Trump mulls 'strong military action' against Iran as death toll in anti-govt protests crosses 500Activists report staggering fatalitiesRights monitors based overseas tallied at least 2572 lives were lost in the governments suppression campaign a figure surpassing tolls from prior waves of dissent over decades and evoking turmoil of the 1979 revolution.
• Communication blackouts initially shrouded details but restored lines revealed scale of violence on Tuesday. Trump reacting to these numbers halted all diplomatic outreach vowing appropriate responses to what he termed excessive force.
• Protests ignited late December over currency crashes and soaring living costs have morphed into broad rejection of clerical rule drawing brutal reprisals. Pakistani students flee chaosAround 60 Pakistani scholars pursuing studies in Iran crossed back through Balochistans remote Gabd post on Tuesday carrying valid papers confirmed Quetta immigration chief Samina Raisani.
• Additional groups anticipated same route Wednesday as universities postponed assessments allowing foreign enrollees exit amid insecurity. Quick ReadsView AllHow the fall of Iran could change the world, impacting even IndiaBad loans and cronyism: How Ayandeh Bank failure triggers protest in IranAmbassador Mudassir Tipu noted Tehrans flexibility for internationals underscoring regional spillovers from domestic strife.
• These returns highlight dangers facing expatriates caught in escalating confrontations. Starlink pierces internet blackoutSatellite firm Starlink activated complimentary access for Iranians possessing terminals providing sole external lifeline after regime severed terrestrial networks last Thursday.