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Repression by Iran’s regime under the fire of war: Abduction, arrest, and internet shutdown

Sia Rajabi
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Repression by Iran’s regime under the fire of war: Abduction, arrest, and internet shutdown

Since the onset of the war between Israel and Iran, numerous reports have emerged detailing the repression of citizens, arrests of civil activists, pressure on political prisoners, and global internet outages. In conditions where Israel issues evacuation warnings and the regime doesn’t even provide air raid sirens, access to life-saving information and demands for the right to education during wartime, access to shelters, and the release of prisoners have increased the pressure on activists, prisoners, and ordinary citizens.

Pressure on political prisoners: Where is Ali Younesi?

Ali Younesi, an elite student at Sharif University and a medalist in the International Astronomy Olympiad, was arrested in March 2020 along with his friend Amirhossein Moradi. These two young men, both around twenty years old at the time, were accused of collaborating with the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK), the largest opposition group to the Iranian regime. After months of solitary confinement, sustained pressure, and relentless interrogations—and over two years of legal limbo—each was sentenced to 16 years in prison.

Iranian Political Prisoner Ali Younesi Transferred from Evin Prison to an Unknown Location

On Tuesday, June 17, “Aida Younesi,” Ali’s sister, tweeted about the “abduction” of her brother, who is incarcerated in Tehran’s notorious Evin Prison, by intelligence agents. The agents later told Ali’s cellmates that he had been taken for interrogation.

Nevertheless, as of the time of writing this report, there has been no news about this imprisoned student. Ali Younesi has been held in prison for the past five years without a single day of furlough.

According to published information, “Hossein Mirbahari,” a well-known child rights activist in Iran, was arrested on June 21 in Tehran. Reports indicate that six plainclothes agents arrested him on that day, but no details have been released regarding the location of his detention or the reasons behind his arrest.

“Hassan Bagherinia,” a former professor at Hakim Sabzevari University, and his wife “Fatemeh Navardi” were also arrested following the circulation of a video on social media in which he accused the regime of consistently exploiting crises to silence dissent.

In another report, “Pouria Nasiri,” a student at the Islamic Azad University in Mahabad, was arrested on June 20. “Sadoun Ghazali,” another Kurdish citizen residing in Mahabad, was also arrested by security forces on Sunday, June 22.

Just two days after the war began, a prominent social sciences scholar known for repeatedly criticizing the policies of the Iranian regime was also arrested. “Mostafa Mehraeen” was detained and transferred to Evin Prison just hours after publishing an open letter addressed to Ali Khamenei and other political and military officials of the regime.

In his letter, Mehraeen called for the immediate end of the war, a return to negotiations, and the resignation of the regime’s supreme leader. He emphasized that the Iranian regime no longer represents the legitimate will of the Iranian people and warned that the continuation of the current situation would further intensify internal crises.

“Motahareh Gonei,” a former political prisoner and student activist, was also arrested one day after the attack, on Saturday, June 14. In her last post on X (formerly Twitter), written just hours before her arrest, she stated: “Now is the time to be precise in our responses and stances. To see who stood with the people and Iran, and which groups, out of fear of war, ran into the arms of the Iranian regime.”

The arrests are not limited to activists. Amid the war between Israel and Iran, justice-seeking families reported that “Majid Naderkhani,” father of “Matin,” and “Ali Mohammadi,” father of “Shahriar”—both killed during the “Woman, Life, Freedom” protest movement—were arrested by security forces.

All these arrests are taking place while prison conditions during wartime are dire. According to several political prisoners held in Evin Prison, Iranian prisons—especially Ward 8 of Evin—lack safety measures against missile and drone attacks, and continuing to hold inmates under such circumstances could put their lives in danger.

Pressure on ordinary citizens

Reports circulating on social media indicate a heightened security atmosphere in various cities across Iran. Eyewitnesses say that riot police have been deployed at several gas stations, especially in northern cities of Iran where millions of displaced citizens have recently sought refuge.

At the same time, state-run news agencies have published reports of citizens being arrested for expressing opinions about the war. Tasnim News Agency, affiliated with the IRGC, reported that on June 14, amid ongoing military strikes between Israel and Iran, two individuals in Kerman Province were arrested by the Public Security Police. The charges included “supporting and backing Israel,” “disturbing public opinion in cyberspace,” “propaganda activities against the regime,” “insulting the exalted status of martyrs,” and “spreading rumors.”

Internet access in Iran has been down for more than 62 hours, with the shutdown beginning on June 18.

While internet access remains cut off across Iran, eyewitnesses and even regime institutions report that Basij forces have set up street patrols and checkpoints. On Monday, June 16, the Basij Organization announced that with the escalation of hostilities between the Iranian regime and Israel, security measures would be intensified nationwide.

Arrest of foreign nationals; espionage accusations

The regime’s repression is not limited to its own citizens who are under bombardment and cut off from the internet. Mehr News Agency published a report about a German-Jewish tourist who entered Iran a year before the war began and was cycling through the country. In a video, this individual—identified as “Marc Kaufman”—is accused of spying for Israel. It is claimed that he sent photos, videos, and GPS locations of “sensitive sites” to individuals outside of Iran.

The Mashregh News website, affiliated with the IRGC, reported on Thursday, June 19, quoting an informed source, that 18 individuals—mostly Afghan nationals—were arrested in the city of Mashhad. According to the source, they were identified in a complex operation and detained on charges of “espionage for Israel.”

 

Day 11 – Regional Fallout and Military Escalation After U.S. Strikes on Iran

Mehdi Hosseini
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Day 11 – Regional Fallout and Military Escalation After U.S. Strikes on Iran

On the eleventh day of the Iran-Israel conflict, attention has shifted globally following the U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities. Despite ongoing exchanges of missiles and drones between the two sides, the spotlight is now on the diplomatic rifts, economic turbulence, and evolving security responses. A divided emergency session was held by the United Nations, even as Iranian and Israeli military operations persist across various fronts.

IRAN

➤ Missile Launches Toward Israel

• Iranian forces launched a new wave of 27 missiles toward Israel early Sunday, with reports confirming that some of these struck populated areas, including Tel Aviv, Haifa, Ness Ziona, and Rishon LeZion.
• The strikes followed the previous day’s U.S. air assault on Iran’s nuclear infrastructure.

➤ Strikes Inside Iran

• Israeli airstrikes targeted multiple regions, including:
o Tehran Province: Air defenses activated in multiple sectors
o Yazd: Two military facilities bombed, nine fatalities reported
o Kermanshah and Hamadan: Radar and satellite systems attacked
o Parchin: According to regime-affiliated media (Nour News), a military-industrial complex in southeast Tehran was bombed
• Explosion reports and active air defense observed in Tehran, Tabriz, Yazd, Hashtgerd, and other cities.• A regime official claimed that over 200 locations in Tehran province have been targeted during the past ten days.

Mohammad Saeed Izadi, Quds Force Commander, Reportedly Killed in Israel Strikes Against Iran

➤ Regime Response and Messaging

• Senior regime officials stated that the presence of U.S. bases and forces in the region is no longer tolerable.
• They warned that any country cooperating with U.S. strikes may be considered a legitimate military target.
• Others emphasized that Iran retains its technical capability and enriched materials, and that despite attacks, the country’s nuclear ambitions remain operational.

➤ U.S. Satellite Damage Claims

• U.S. President Donald Trump reiterated via Truth Social that “monumental damage” was inflicted on Iran’s nuclear sites.
• He claimed that the deep underground structures were hit and referred to the operation as a “bullseye.”
• Trump questioned why “regime change” would be inappropriate if the Iranian government could not “make Iran great again.”

ISRAEL

➤ Missile Strikes and Alerts

• Israeli military announced that air raid sirens were activated across central Israel due to incoming missiles launched from Iran.
• According to the army, the alerts were lifted after a short time, allowing civilians to exit shelters.
• Iranian missile fire during the previous 24 hours included at least 27 ballistic missiles in two waves, targeting Tel Aviv, Haifa, Ness Ziona, and Rishon LeZion.
• Several buildings in Tel Aviv were damaged. Reports indicate additional damage in the northern and central regions.

➤ Military Operations Inside Iran

• Israeli forces confirmed the dispatch of 20 fighter jets conducting what it termed “intelligence-based operations” in the Tehran, Kermanshah, and Hamadan regions.
• Targets reportedly included missile storage facilities, launch platforms, radar and satellite installations, and a surface-to-air missile system near Tehran.
• Following these attacks, explosions and activation of air defense systems were reported in several cities, including Tehran, Tabriz, Yazd, and Hashtgerd.

➤ Confirmed Casualties

• According to Iranian state-linked media (Tasnim), seven IRGC members and two conscripts were killed during Israeli strikes on two military sites in Yazd.

➤ Official Israeli Statements

• The Israeli prime minister stated that the country is nearing completion of its objective to eliminate Iran’s nuclear and missile capabilities.
• He also said that Israel does not intend to enter a prolonged war but that the current military operation will not end prematurely.

Field Reports & Developments

➤ UN Security Council Emergency Meeting – No Resolution

• The session was held Sunday evening at Iran’s request.
• The UN Secretary-General warned that the region cannot withstand another cycle of destruction and called for de-escalation.
• The Director General of the IAEA said that nuclear sites must not be targeted and confirmed that the agency is currently unable to assess the full extent of the damage at Fordow.
• The Russian delegate condemned the U.S. strike as illegal and unilateral.
• The U.S. representative stated that the operation was aimed at dismantling Iran’s nuclear enrichment capabilities, protecting Israel, and exercising the U.S. right to self-defense under the UN Charter.
• The Iranian ambassador accused the U.S. of once again placing Israeli interests ahead of its own security and denounced the UN and IAEA for inaction.
• The Israeli ambassador praised the U.S. attack and said Iran had never seriously pursued negotiations.

➤ Australia Supports U.S. Strike

• The Australian Prime Minister publicly supported the U.S. airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear sites.
• Speaking in Canberra alongside the foreign minister, he called for all parties to return to diplomacy, while warning Iran against further actions that would destabilize the region.

➤ Security Inside the U.S.

• ABC News: Senior FBI and DHS officials briefed hundreds of U.S. state and local security leaders following the attack.
• No direct threat to U.S. territory was identified at this time.

➤ Regional Positioning

• A senior official from Yemen’s Houthi forces stated that their response would depend on the Islamic Republic of Iran’s next move.
• Syrian media reported that the government expelled Talal Naji, a Palestinian militant leader allied with Iran, from Syrian territory.
• The expulsion is seen as a distancing move by Syria after U.S. involvement in the conflict.

Global Economic Impact

  • Following the U.S. strike, oil prices rose sharply in early Monday trading in Asian markets:
    o Brent crude surged to $81.40/barrel before stabilizing at $78.89
    o WTI crude hit $78.40, later settling at $75.71
    • Analysts note this is the highest price level since January 2025, and volatility is expected to continue as long as military actions affect Persian Gulf security.

Mohammad Saeed Izadi, Quds Force Commander, Reportedly Killed in Israel Strikes Against Iran

Esmaeil Mohades
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Mohammad Saeed Izadi, Quds Force Commander, Reportedly Killed in Israel Strikes Against Iran

On the morning of Saturday, June 21, Israeli Air Force targeted an apartment in a building in the Salarieh neighborhood of Qom. Reports indicate that the strike left at least two people dead.

A few hours later, Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant claimed that the target of the attack was Mohammad Saeed Izadi, commander of the Quds Force’s Palestine branch, who was known by the alias “Haj Ramadan.” On September 10, 2019, the U.S. Treasury Department designated him as “one of the leaders of terrorist groups.”

Iran’s regime has not yet confirmed or denied the news, but if Tehran confirms Izadi’s death, he would be the first IRGC commander killed in the ongoing conflict. Israel claims he was targeted due to his direct role in arming Hamas for its attack against Israel.

Yoav Gallant described Mohammad Saeed Izadi as the commander who “trained and armed the extremist group Hamas for the October 7, 2023, massacre,” and added that he was killed in the attack on “an apartment in the heart of Qom.”

U.S. Attack on Iranian Regime’s Nuclear Facilities

In a post on X (formerly Twitter), the Israeli army quoted its Chief of Staff calling Saeed Izadi’s death “one of the key turning points in the current war.”

But what is known about Mohammad Saeed Izadi, one of the senior commanders of the IRGC Quds Force?

Survivor of Three Israeli Strikes

Following the October 7 Hamas attack, Israel launched targeted strikes in Lebanon and Syria, some of which aimed at commanders of the IRGC and the Quds Force.

Israel’s Channel 14 reported that after the Hamas attack, several IRGC commanders were placed on Israeli intelligence services’ “kill list,” with Mohammad Saeed Izadi among them.

Mohammad Saeed Izadi was targeted by Israeli airstrikes in Syria at least three times—operations that all failed. At one point, reports of his death surfaced but were later denied.

He survived Israeli strikes on January 29, 2024 in the Sayyidah Zaynab area near Damascus; February 21, 2024 in the Kafr Sousa district of Damascus; and March 1, 2024 in the Babilla area, also near Damascus.

The Longest-Serving Iranian General in Lebanon

Holding the rank of major general, Mohammad Saeed Izadi was regarded as “the longest-serving Iranian general in Lebanon.” He was also described as the liaison between Iranian regime leader Ali Khamenei and the now-killed Hezbollah Secretary-General Hassan Nasrallah.

A graduate in electronic engineering from Khajeh Nasir al-Din Tusi University of Technology, Izadi was also responsible for supplying weapons to Hezbollah.

He began his military career in 1979 by joining the IRGC and served as a mid-level commander during the Iran-Iraq War.

From 1982 to 1983, he commanded the IRGC in Kurdistan province; from then until 1985, he led the Hamzeh Seyyed al-Shohada Headquarters; and up to 1987, he was the commander of the Najaf Ashraf Headquarters. He was then transferred to the IRGC General Staff and served as deputy commander until 1989.

After the end of the war, he served as commander of the IRGC Ground Forces until 1993, and from then until 2006, he held the position of deputy for planning, programs, and budgeting at the Armed Forces General Staff before transferring to the Quds Force.

 

U.S. Attack on Iranian Regime’s Nuclear Facilities

Mehdi Hosseini
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U.S. Attack on Iranian Regime’s Nuclear Facilities

U.S. President Donald Trump announced the execution of “successful airstrikes” against three of the Iranian regime’s nuclear sites: Fordow, Natanz, and Isfahan. He stated that all U.S. aircraft had exited Iranian airspace.

On the evening of Saturday, June 21, Trump posted on X (formerly Twitter):

Meanwhile, Israel’s Channel 14 reported that during the attack on the Iranian regime’s nuclear facilities, U.S. and Israeli officials simultaneously observed live footage of the operation.

This move has been described as a sign of what is being referred to as unprecedented and close coordination between the two countries.

According to this report, the United States also carried out a deception operation aimed at catching the Iranian regime off guard both militarily and politically.

The operation involved releasing fabricated reports about tensions between Washington and Tel Aviv, as well as misleading troop movements.

The Israeli media outlet stated that the aim of these measures was to create confusion in the Iranian regime’s military and political decision-making processes ahead of the coordinated U.S.-Israeli strikes.

The United States used the 13.6-ton GBU-57A/B bomb, known as the “bunker buster,” in its strikes against the Iranian regime’s nuclear facilities. This marks the first reported operational use of this massive bomb.

Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the president-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), the largest political coalition opposing the Iranian regime, also stated in a message:

 

UN Report: Iran’s Regime Guilty of Mass Executions and Repression

Jubin Katiraie
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UN Report: Iran’s Regime Guilty of Mass Executions and Repression

UN Secretary-General’s Report on Human Rights Violations by Iran’s Regime
According to a shocking report by António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations, presented on Wednesday, June 18, 2025, at the UN Human Rights Council in Geneva, Iran’s regime recorded one of the darkest human rights records in 2024 by executing at least 975 people. The report presents a horrifying picture of systematic human rights violations under the dictatorship of the Supreme Leader: from widespread and public executions to the brutal suppression of protesters, minorities, women, and journalists.

The United Nations, expressing deep concern, has called on the international community to hold the regime accountable for ending the cycle of violence and human rights violations through diplomatic pressure and targeted sanctions.

Wave of Executions, Gross Violation of the Right to Life

In 2024, Iran’s regime executed at least 975 people, marking a 17% increase compared to 2023 (834 executions), setting a horrifying record not seen since 2015. At least four of these executions were carried out publicly—an act that, according to international organizations, is a blatant violation of human dignity and human rights standards.

Week 73 of “No to Execution Tuesdays” Campaign Spreads to 47 Prisons

An analysis of the charges against those executed reveals non-transparent and unfair judicial procedures:

  • 52% for drug-related offenses
  • 43% for murder
  • 2% for sexual offenses
  • 3% for security-related charges, including espionage
    Human rights experts regard this range of accusations combined with the lack of fair trials as a sign of systematic violations of the right to life.

Women, Double Victims of the Regime’s Suppression

The UN report highlights a troubling rise in the execution of women in Iran. In 2024, at least 31 women were executed—a significant increase compared to 22 cases the previous year. Many of these women were convicted in cases involving domestic violence, forced marriage, or child marriage. Notably, nine women were executed for killing their husbands, despite clear evidence of prolonged domestic abuse. These cases starkly illustrate the regime’s gross violation of gender justice and its disregard for international standards of protection for women who are victims of violence.

Repression of Protesters and Minorities, Systematic Discrimination

Iran’s regime continues its relentless crackdown on protesters, particularly those who took part in the nationwide uprisings following the killing of Mahsa Amini in 2022. The UN report confirms that several of those executed were convicted on charges related to these protests, despite the fact that the regime’s courts lacked the basic standards of fair trial. This has further heightened concerns about widespread human rights violations in Iran.

Ethnic minorities have also been disproportionately subjected to harsh punishments:

  • 108 of those executed were Baluch citizens
  • 84 Kurdish prisoners were among those executed
    These figures clearly indicate the regime’s systematic and deliberate discrimination against ethnic minorities and serve as an alarm for the international community.

Arbitrary Arrests and Suppression of Free Expression

The UN report details a rise in arbitrary arrests, widespread use of torture in detention centers, and unfair trials. By intensifying restrictions on freedom of expression and peaceful assembly, Iran’s regime has blatantly violated its international obligations under the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights. In 2024, at least 125 journalists, including 40 women, faced prosecution, summons, or arrest due to their media activities and critical reporting.

UN Call to Halt Executions

Nada Al-Nashif, UN Deputy High Commissioner for Human Rights, presenting the report, called on Iran’s regime to immediately halt executions and uphold human rights. She also urged the international community to exert effective diplomatic pressure to stop human rights abuses in Iran, particularly executions and the crackdown on protesters.

Nada Al-Nashif clearly stated that the continuation of mass executions, torture, arbitrary detentions, and severe restrictions on free expression paints a grim picture of the human rights situation in Iran—one that demands urgent intervention from the global community.

The UN report, along with the outcry of the Iranian people and political prisoners in campaigns like “No to Executions,” underscores the depth of the human rights catastrophe in Iran. Widespread executions, repression of protesters, discrimination against minorities, and the crackdown on free expression have made the regime of the Supreme Leader one of the world’s most notorious violators of the Iranian people’s rights. The international community must help end this cycle of violence through diplomatic pressure, targeted sanctions, and support for the Iranian people’s demands for justice and freedom. Without decisive action, the human rights crisis in Iran will remain one of the most pressing challenges for the global community.

 

Grossi Warns of Consequences of Attacks on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

Sia Rajabi
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Grossi Warns of Consequences of Attacks on Iran’s Nuclear Facilities

The Director General of the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) warned at a UN Security Council session that recent Israeli attacks on Iran’s nuclear facilities have heightened the risk of a radiological disaster, with potential consequences extending beyond Iran’s borders.

Rafael Grossi, Director General of the IAEA, stated in a prepared statement for the second session of the UN Security Council that Israel’s recent attacks on Iran’s regime’s nuclear sites have severely compromised nuclear safety and security in the country.

Iran’s Nuclear Power Dream: From Fantasy to Reality

According to the agency’s report, on June 13, the main fuel enrichment facility at the Natanz site was targeted. Its electrical infrastructure and backup generators were destroyed. The main centrifuge hall was heavily damaged by bunker-busting bombs. Another part of the site, the pilot fuel enrichment facility, was completely destroyed at the surface level, and its underground sections suffered serious damage.

At the Isfahan site, four buildings were damaged, including the central chemical laboratory, the uranium conversion facility, the Tehran reactor fuel production plant, and a uranium metal processing facility that was under construction.

Grossi emphasized that although no increased radiation levels have been reported outside these facilities, chemical and radiological contamination has been detected within some of the sites, including Natanz, posing a risk to personnel.

Serious Threats in Bushehr and Tehran

According to Grossi, the most dangerous scenario involves the Bushehr nuclear power plant, which contains thousands of kilograms of nuclear material and remains operational. A direct attack on the facility or a disruption to its power supply could cause a reactor core meltdown and the release of large quantities of radioactive material.

In Tehran, buildings used for the development and testing of advanced centrifuges were also targeted. At the Karaj workshop, two buildings associated with centrifuge component production were destroyed.

Grossi warned that any attack on active nuclear facilities like Bushehr or the Tehran research reactor could have broad consequences for public health and the environment, potentially necessitating protective measures such as evacuation or the administration of stable iodine.

Grossi stressed that the agency must urgently resume inspections of Iran’s facilities, especially given that over 400 kilograms of Iran’s uranium stockpile is enriched to 60%.

He further warned that any efforts by Iran to safeguard its nuclear materials and equipment must comply with its safeguard’s commitments, and IAEA inspectors must be allowed to verify their integrity and condition.

Grossi also reminded Iran of its responsibility to ensure the safety of inspectors and called on the regime to maintain communication channels with the agency’s inspection teams.

He concluded by stating that the agency stands ready to dispatch its nuclear safety and security experts to Iran and play its vital role in preventing a crisis. He emphasized that a diplomatic solution is still possible and must not be missed.

Day 9: June 21, 2025 – Iran–Israel Strikes Intensify Amid Faltering Nuclear Talks

Staff Writer
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Day 9: June 21, 2025 – Iran–Israel Strikes Intensify Amid Faltering Nuclear Talks

Day 9: Saturday, June 21, 2025
• Israeli Military: Announced the killing of the regime IRGC Aerospace Force’s second drone unit commander in an airstrike, who directed hundreds of drone launches from Ahvaz toward Israel. Since Mohammad Bagher Taherpour’s death in last week’s Israeli attack, this commander played a pivotal role in drone operations.
• Times of Israel: Reported explosions in central Israel after sirens, unclear if caused by missile interceptions or impacts.
• CNN: Reported a fire in a Holon building near Tel Aviv’s business district, caused by shrapnel from downed Iranian missiles, following Iran’s state TV claim of an 18th missile wave.
• Israeli Military: Intercepted a “suspicious aerial target” near Ghajar by Lebanon after a drone sighting, origin unspecified.
• Morteza Heydari, Qom Provincial Crisis Management: Reported two killed, four injured in an Israeli attack on a Qom residential building, up from one teenager killed and two injured.

War, internet blackout, anxiety; connection with Iran has been severed

• Tasnim News Agency and Eghtesad News: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi traveled to Istanbul for an Organization of Islamic Cooperation meeting to discuss Israel’s attacks, proposed by the regime, after meeting UK, French, and German ministers in Geneva.
• Israeli Military and Eyal Zamir: Chief of the General Staff of the Israel Defense Forces Zamir said preparations for Iran attacks began years ago, intensified secretly in recent months, enabled by “operational and strategic conditions.” Delaying risked disadvantage.
• Gideon Saar, Bild Interview, Time: Israeli Foreign Minister said attacks on nuclear/military sites and killing of Iranian commanders/scientists delayed Iran’s nuclear bomb by 2–3 years, per assessments. Regime change not a goal “so far.”
• Tulsi Gabbard: US Director of National Intelligence said Iran could produce a nuclear weapon in weeks, accusing media of distorting her March Senate testimony denying Iran’s weapon development. Trump twice contradicted her. Iran insists its program is peaceful.
• CBS News: Cited US/European diplomats on secret talks about Iran’s next leader, questioning nuclear facility security and attack consequences for allies, as Trump gave Iran two weeks to respond to US nuclear proposals.
• David Petraeus: Former CENTCOM commander said US ships in the region aim to prevent Iran from closing the Strait of Hormuz.
• Akbar Salehi, Isfahan Deputy Governor: Confirmed Israeli attack on Isfahan nuclear site, denying hazardous material leakage. Israel also targeted Lenjan, Mobarakeh, Shahreza, and Isfahan city areas, with no casualties.

Casualty and Damage Summary (as of June 21, 2025)
• Israel: 30 killed (28 prior + 2 in Qom attack, Iranian media), 906+ injured (886 prior + 20 in Bat Yam/Judean Foothills, BBC), (New York Times, Sky News citing AFP, AP, Israeli emergency services, Channel 12, Yedioth Ahronoth, Al Arabiya, Al Jazeera, BBC, Iranian media); 99 buildings damaged (98 prior + 1 in Holon, CNN), 22 at risk of collapse, 20 vehicles burned in Tel Aviv, Soroka Hospital in Beersheba heavily damaged, Tel Aviv residential skyscraper, buildings in Ramat Gan, Holon, Beersheba (near Microsoft building, apartment complex, one destroyed), Haifa (port, mosque, school), Bat Yam (10-story block), Tamra, Rishon LeZion, and Petah Tikva affected; Beersheba north train station closed; ~4,000 civilians displaced (Sky News).
• Iran: 590 killed (588 prior + 2 IRGC commanders, Israeli military), 4,130 injured (4,126 prior + 4 in Qom, Iranian media); additional 26 killed in Borujerd/Khorramabad, 6 IRGC and 2 Basijis in Khmin, 2 at Tabriz’s Second Fighter Base, 30 senior military commanders, several IRGC in Bostanabad (Basij Student News Agency, Fars Telegram, IRGC Telegram, Israeli Military, IRGC).

Notable Damage
• Israel: Central power grid, Nevatim Airbase, Haifa ammonia plant, power station, Soroka Hospital, Haifa port, and mosque damaged.
• Iran: Tehran’s Foreign Ministry, Justice Ministry, IRIB building (reignited fire), Khabar Network studio, oil/gas facilities, residential areas, Bagheri Chitgar, Iran Mall, western, northeastern, eastern, District 3, Lavasan, Nobonyad, Yousefabad, Gisha (apartment hit), and Qom (residential building) Tehran locations, Kermanshah missile facility, Esfahan’s fighter base, Alavijeh Industrial Town, Imam Hussein University, Hakimiyeh in Tehranpars, Natanz enrichment halls (one destroyed, one damaged), Mehrabad Airport, Payam Airport area, Tehran Refinery, Parchin facilities, Khajir missile complex, IRGC-affiliated university, internal security agency headquarters, police information center, special police unit headquarters, Tehran hospital, Khondab heavy water facility (distillation unit damaged, IAEA), nuclear research complex, Sepand Organization, Bostanabad IRGC base, Rasht’s Sepidrud Industrial Town (explosion and fire), Shiraz IRGC barracks/ammunition depot, Fardis (Alborz) military base, Karaj Basij domain, and sites in Tabriz, Shiraz, Parand, Mehrshahr, Karaj, Lavasan, Isfahan (nuclear site, Lenjan, Mobarakeh, Shahreza), Kashan, Mallard, Kahrizak, Ahvaz, Zanjan, Qom, and Ahvaz’s Kianabad/Kianpars targeted; Isfahan nuclear-related facilities, Kashan checkpoint, and Arak heavy water facility (near Khondab) damaged; internet blackout for 72 hours (NetBlocks).

War, internet blackout, anxiety; connection with Iran has been severed

Sia Rajabi
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War, internet blackout, anxiety; connection with Iran has been severed

The widespread internet blackout in Iran has eliminated the ability to communicate with people inside the country. In such a situation, accurate information about the condition of citizens amid wartime circumstances is not being published, and the regime’s narratives are not considered reliable by the public.
Since Thursday, June 19, internet access in Iran has been effectively cut off entirely, eliminating the possibility of independent reporting on the current situation by journalists and citizen-reporters.

Day 7: Escalation on June 19, 2025 – Israel-Iran Conflict Intensifies

Since Thursday, the internet has been almost completely cut off across Iran. This is not merely a technical disruption but a deliberate and organized act by Iran’s regime.
While Iran’s regime has not even sounded air raid sirens for its citizens, it has resorted to a total internet shutdown—the only remaining tool for communication, spreading awareness, and even saving lives.
On the other hand, Iranians living abroad now face serious obstacles in communicating with their families inside the country, and the ongoing wartime conditions have intensified the psychological distress caused by this disconnection.
Internet restrictions in Iran became more severe starting Tuesday, June 17.
While FATA Police (a cybercrime and morality enforcement unit) claimed that the disruption was due to “cyberattacks,” many social media users believe that Iran’s regime has deliberately restricted citizens’ access to the open internet to prevent the dissemination and spread of accurate information about recent developments.

Internet Censorship in Iran Has Turned Into a Billion-Dollar Business For State Actors

Iran’s regime has previously used internet blackouts as a tool for suppression.
During the November 2019 protests, which resulted in the killing of more than 1,500 people, access to the global internet in Iran was completely shut down for several days.
Likewise, during the nationwide uprising of 2022, many parts of the country experienced internet shutdowns or severe restrictions at various times.

Day 7: Escalation on June 19, 2025 – Israel-Iran Conflict Intensifies

Hoshang Amiri
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Day 7: Escalation on June 19, 2025 – Israel-Iran Conflict Intensifies

Day 7: Thursday, June 19, 2025
Regime’s Mehr News Agency, 3:30 AM: Iranian defense forces began operations in central Tehran, with reports of explosions in Isfahan, Kashan, Mallard, and Karaj.
Israeli Military, Wednesday Evening: 60 Israeli Air Force jets bombed over 20 military targets in Tehran, including weapons production, centrifuge manufacturing, and nuclear R&D centers aimed at accelerating uranium enrichment beyond civilian needs.
Bloomberg, Thursday Morning: Senior U.S. officials are preparing for a potential attack on Iran in the coming days, possibly Saturday or Sunday, though plans may change. The Wall Street Journal reported Trump approved but postponed an attack, pending Iran’s possible halt to its nuclear program.
Iranian Reports, 6:00 AM: Israeli Air Force attacked the area near Khondab’s “Martyrs of Khondab” heavy water facility with two projectiles; defenses repelled others. No casualties or radiation risks were reported due to prior evacuation. ISNA reported an explosion near Khondab.

Widespread Disruptions and Shortages Across Iran Amid Ongoing Israeli Strikes

Israeli Military, 4:30 AM Tehran Time: Issued an evacuation warning for a two-kilometer radius around the Arak heavy water facility, planning to strike military infrastructure, accompanied by a satellite image marking the target.
Iranian TV: Reported two Israeli missiles hit the Arak heavy water facility, with no casualties or contamination due to prior safety measures and evacuation.
Regime’s Tasnim and Fars News Agencies, Early Thursday Morning: Iran launched a new wave of missile attacks on Israel, targeting the Israeli army’s command and intelligence headquarters and Gav-Yam tech park, not Soroka Hospital. Explosions reported in Jerusalem, Tel Aviv, and Modi’in.
Israeli Reports, Early Thursday Morning: An Iranian missile struck Soroka Hospital in Beersheba, causing extensive damage and injuring several people, with 30 total injuries (3 critical) across Holon and Ramat Gan. Buildings in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Holon were also damaged.
Al Jazeera, Early Thursday Morning: Loud explosions heard in Tel Aviv and Jerusalem; Israeli media reported at least four missiles hit locations in Israel.
Israel’s Channel 12: Reported 20 missiles in the Thursday attack, noting fewer missiles and no casualties in Iran’s attacks on Tuesday and Wednesday, allowing Israel to reopen shopping centers and offices.
Israeli Military: Air raid sirens sounded in Jerusalem due to Iranian missiles, with Israel’s defense system intercepting most. Israel claims it reduced Iran’s missile launch capacity by 40% by targeting systems in Ilam, Kurdistan, East/West Azerbaijan, and Kermanshah.
Regime’s Tasnim News Agency: Iran claimed it fired advanced ballistic missiles capable of faster travel to Israel, a capability held by few countries.
Israeli Military Spokesman Avichay Adraei: Israel killed Yassin Abdel Moneim Izzeddine, a Hezbollah artillery commander, who was rebuilding artillery in Lebanon. Hezbollah has not confirmed.
Ayatollah Sistani: Condemned Israel’s attacks on Iran, warning that targeting Iran’s leadership would violate moral and international standards, risking regional chaos. He urged global and Islamic governments to stop the war and seek a peaceful, law-based solution to Iran’s nuclear issue.
Axios, Citing U.S. Officials: Trump requested data on attacking Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility with bunker-busting bombs, seeking assurance it’s necessary, effective, and won’t prolong U.S. involvement. Pentagon officials are confident, but Trump remains undecided. Israeli officials believe they could damage Fordow independently, possibly with ground forces.
ABC News, Citing Informed Source: Trump is increasingly open to multiple strikes on Iran’s Fordow nuclear facility, with preparations underway.
Sparrowhawk Hacking Group: Stole over $90 million from Iran’s largest cryptocurrency company, transferring the funds to an irretrievable location to send a message.

Casualty and Damage Summary (as of June 19, 2025, 08:11 AM CEST)
Israel: 24 killed, 630+ injured (600+ prior + 30 from missile attacks, including 3 critical in Holon and Ramat Gan) (New York Times, Sky News citing AFP, Israeli reports); 80 buildings damaged in Bat Yam, 22 at risk of collapse, 20 vehicles burned in a Tel Aviv parking lot, Soroka Hospital in Beersheba heavily damaged, buildings in Tel Aviv, Ramat Gan, and Holon affected (Chand Sanieh citing Channel 12, Israeli reports).
Iran: 639 killed, 1,329 injured; additional 26 killed in Borujerd/Khorramabad, 6 IRGC and 2 Basijis in Khmin, 2 at Tabriz’s Second Fighter Base (Basij Student News Agency, Fars Telegram, IRGC Telegram).

Notable Damage: Israel’s central power grid, Nevatim Airbase, Haifa ammonia plant, power station, and Soroka Hospital damaged; Tehran’s Foreign Ministry, Justice Ministry, IRIB building (reignited fire), Khabar Network studio, oil/gas facilities, residential areas, Bagheri Chitgar, Iran Mall, western, northeastern, eastern, and District 3 Tehran locations, Kermanshah missile facility, Esfahan’s fighter base, Alavijeh Industrial Town, Imam Hussein University, Hakimiyeh in Tehranpars, Natanz enrichment halls (one destroyed, one damaged), Mehrabad Airport, Payam Airport area, Tehran Refinery, Parchin facilities, Khajir missile complex, IRGC-affiliated university, internal security agency headquarters, and Arak heavy water facility hit; sites in Tabriz, Shiraz, Parand, Mehrshahr, Karaj, Lavasan, Isfahan, Kashan, Mallard, and Ahvaz’s Kianabad/Kianpars targeted; Isfahan nuclear-related facilities and Kashan checkpoint damaged.

Widespread Disruptions and Shortages Across Iran Amid Ongoing Israeli Strikes

Esmaeil Mohades
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Widespread Disruptions and Shortages Across Iran Amid Ongoing Israeli Strikes

In the wake of Israeli attacks, disruptions reported in banks, internet, water supply, and shortages of gasoline and bread

On the seventh day of Israeli strikes targeting the Iranian regime’s positions, several citizens reported widespread problems across the country, including disruptions in the banking system, total or severe internet outages, water cuts, and shortages of gasoline and bread in some cities.

Additionally, yesterday the state-run television was hacked, broadcasting footage of past uprisings by the Iranian people. In these videos, people were urged to rise up for their freedom and overthrow Iran’s regime.

Day 6: Escalating Strikes and Missile Barrages Push Israel-Iran Conflict to New Heights

On Tuesday, June 17, a large number of citizens reported that Sepah Bank had become entirely inaccessible, with all online access to accounts disabled.

At the same time, the hacker group “Predatory Sparrow” released a statement taking responsibility for the cyberattack, stating: “In a cyber operation, we have destroyed all data of Sepah Bank.”

This group had previously carried out a cyberattack on fuel stations in various cities in December 2023, which resulted in a complete halt to fuel distribution operations for vehicles.

Fars News Agency, affiliated with the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), confirmed the cyberattack on Sepah Bank’s infrastructure and stated that since this bank supports fuel stations, disruptions may occur at gas stations in the coming hours.

Citizen reports indicate that banking issues in Iran are not limited to Sepah Bank.

According to citizen reports, online gold trading has also been deactivated for the past two days, and people’s funds have been blocked, making it impossible to either buy or sell gold.

Reports from various cities across Iran indicate that internet access is either completely cut off or severely disrupted and slow for much of the day.

Home and mobile internet in Tehran has significantly weakened and is being disconnected repeatedly.

Movement Restrictions and Fuel Shortages

On the seventh day since the start of the war, due to the regime’s inefficiency and incompetence, the problems and restrictions facing citizens are increasing.

According to a notice issued by the security office of Sharif University of Technology in Tehran, student entry into the university is prohibited until further notice, even for those with prior authorization. Amirkabir University’s student newsletter also reported on June 17 that an emergency evacuation and state of alert had been declared at the university.

Fuel distribution in several cities in Iran has faced disruptions since the first day of Israeli attacks, and reports indicate fuel station lines stretching several kilometers.

Disruptions to Daily Life

In addition to these issues, some citizens have reported problems including power and water outages, shortages of bread, food items, and gasoline, as well as movement restrictions.

Videos shared on social media show that on Tuesday, June 17, water was being distributed by tanker trucks in Niavaran, a neighborhood in northern Tehran.

Reports indicate that some areas of Mashhad are facing severe shortages of cooking oil and sugar, and canned food is being rationed, limited to two per person.

The crisis of food shortages, internet outages, and long lines at fuel stations is the result of four decades of corruption, cronyism, and chronic repression within the economic structure of Iran’s regime.

The regime’s ineffective response highlights the severe fragility of its economic infrastructure and its inability to manage crises.

People in many provinces—especially Tehran, Gilan, and Mazandaran—are struggling to obtain bread and facing long queues and flour shortages.

Despite these reports, the Tehran Chamber of Guilds denied any shortages and announced that a central headquarters has been established for distributing and supplying essential goods in the market.

Iran’s Chamber of Guilds added: “Regarding the supply of necessary oil and rice in the market, we are coordinating and following up with the Ministry of Agriculture.”

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