Iranian authorities moved on Monday to regain control of the streets by organising large-scale rallies across the country after weeks of intense protests.
The demonstrations began over economic grievances but quickly evolved into one of the biggest challenges to Iran’s political system since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. Protest activity has continued for more than two weeks despite a strong security response.
Authorities imposed an internet blackout that lasted over three and a half days. Activists say the shutdown aims to restrict the flow of information and hide the true scale of the crackdown. Rights groups fear the death toll may be far higher than official figures.
Thousands of people gathered in Tehran’s Enghelab Square, waving national flags and listening to prayers for those killed in what the government described as “riots,” according to state television.
Addressing the crowd, Parliament Speaker Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf said Iran faced pressure on multiple fronts. He cited economic sanctions, psychological warfare, military threats from the United States and Israel, and what he called acts of terrorism linked to the protests.
MASS pro-govt rallies hit Iran streets in SEVERAL cities
People came out protesting against foreign-supported protests and riots pic.twitter.com/KZsZJ0gWQA
— RT (@RT_com) January 12, 2026Ghalibaf warned that Iran’s armed forces would respond forcefully if the country came under attack. The speech followed rising tensions with Washington.
US President Donald Trump said Iran’s leadership had contacted him to seek negotiations. He had earlier warned of possible military action if protesters were killed.
Read: Iran Says Situation ‘Under Control’ as Trump Weighs Military Options
Iran’s Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi said Tehran did not seek war but remained fully prepared for it. He added that Iran was open to talks if they took place with mutual respect and equal footing.
🇮🇷🗣️Iran is witnessing massive rallies in support of the Islamic Revolution as huge crowds fill the streets of..
•Tehran
•Mashhad
•Esfahan
•Hamadan
A powerful show of unity and momentum across major cities pic.twitter.com/hQIW5HrfAM
— WAR (@warsurveillance) January 12, 2026Foreign Ministry spokesman Esmaeil Baghaei confirmed that indirect communication channels remain open between Araghchi and Trump’s Middle East envoy, Steve Witkoff, despite the absence of formal diplomatic relations.
Meanwhile, Oman’s foreign minister visited Tehran over the weekend and met Iranian officials. Oman has previously acted as a mediator during periods of heightened tension between Iran and the United States. As protests continue, Iran now faces mounting domestic pressure alongside growing international uncertainty.
