Iran Declares Three Days of National Mourning for ‘Martyrs’ Killed Amid Widespread Protests

The Iranian government has announced three days of national mourning for security personnel and others killed during two weeks of widespread protests, state television reported. Officials referred to the unrest as part of an “Iranian national resistance battle against America and the Zionist regime,” with the latter term used by Tehran to describe Israel, which it does not formally recognize.

President Masoud Pezeshkian called on citizens to join a “national resistance march” on Monday, encouraging nationwide rallies to denounce what the government described as violence perpetrated by “urban terrorist criminals.” The demonstrations, which began over rising living costs, have persisted despite a crackdown and evolved into a broader challenge to the theocratic system established after the 1979 revolution.

US President Donald Trump stated that Iran’s leadership contacted him to negotiate following his repeated warnings of possible military intervention if protesters were harmed. Speaking aboard Air Force One, Trump said, “A meeting is being set up… They want to negotiate,” while adding that “we may have to act before a meeting.”

Human rights group Iran Human Rights (IHR), based in Norway, reported at least 192 confirmed deaths among protesters, though the actual number may be higher. State television has broadcast footage of burning buildings, including a mosque, as well as funeral processions for security forces, highlighting the intensity of the unrest.

This wave of protests underscores ongoing tensions in Iran, as citizens continue to voice dissatisfaction over economic conditions and political governance despite government crackdowns and nationwide mourning efforts.