As protests and the nationwide uprising of the Iranian people, which began on December 28 in cities across the country, continued, Friday, January 16, witnessed ongoing protests, clashes, intensified state repression, and domestic and international reactions to these developments. This report presents a summarized account of the most important events and news from that day.
Direct fire on protesters
Videos published from the city of Dezful in Khuzestan province show shocking scenes of direct fire by forces loyal to Ali Khamenei, the supreme leader of the Iranian regime, at protesting civilians. These images, from Dezful’s Clock Square, demonstrate the overt use of live ammunition by regime forces against demonstrators and the escalation of organized violence against the popular uprising.
Amnesty International Calls Urgent Action by International Community Over Killing of Protesters in Iran #IranProt #FreeIran2026ests #IranRevolutionhttps://t.co/PY54jgfYBK
— Iran Focus (@Iran_Focus) January 15, 2026
Media narrative-building by institutions affiliated with the IRGC
A news agency affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps claimed in a statement that protesters “possessed various cold and firearms” and were seeking to “seize ammunition depots and military centers.” The outlet also reported that a number of protesters were arrested during attacks on police stations and military sites. These claims are assessed as part of the authorities’ efforts to justify the bloody crackdown and portray popular protests as armed actions.
