Video shows multiple bodies on hospital floor in Tehran

Jan 9, 2026, 16:34 GMT

A video obtained by Iran International appears to show multiple bodies lying on the ground at Alghadir Hospital in eastern Tehran following massive protests held on Thursday night across the country.

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Dramatic scenes from massive protests held on Thursday night

Jan 9, 2026, 16:20 GMT

Millions of Iranians filled streets across the country on Thursday, the 12th day of nationwide protests.

In videos sent to Iran International, dramatic scenes were shown, including the burning of signs and statues of late Quds Force commander Qassem Soleimani, as well as vehicles and buildings.

UN rights chief says deeply disturbed by violence in Iran protests

Jan 9, 2026, 15:58 GMT

"I am deeply disturbed by reports of violence during nationwide protests in Iran over the past 13 days, including reported deaths and destruction of property," UN Human Rights chief Volker Türk said in a statement on Friday.

"The right to peaceful protest, as enshrined in international law, must be protected. All deaths should be promptly, independently, and transparently investigated. Those responsible for any violations must be held to account in line with international norms and standards."

Türk said he is concerned by reports of nationwide internet and communications shutdowns.

"Such actions undermine freedom of expression and access to information, as well as impacting on the work of those documenting human rights violations, and access to essential and emergency services."

Disturbing video from western Tehran shows bodies on the ground

Jan 9, 2026, 15:23 GMT

A disturbing video circulating on social media shows several people lying motionless on the ground following massive protests held on Thursday night in Fardis, 25 miles west of Tehran.

The footage was reviewed by the Iranian fact-checking platform Factnameh, which said the videos are authentic, newly recorded, and had not previously appeared online.

At least seven people can be seen in the footage lying on the ground. The condition of some of them appears critical, though there has been no official confirmation of casualties during the crackdown on protests on Thursday.

Factnameh also said at least one additional video from protests in the streets of Fardis shows demonstrators coming under live fire.

Exiled prince appeals to Trump, warns blackout could lead to bloodshed

Jan 9, 2026, 15:14 GMT

Iranian exiled Prince Reza Pahlavi on Friday issued an urgent appeal for US President Donald Trump’s support, warning that a total internet shutdown in Iran could pave the way for a deadly crackdown on protesters.

"Mr. President, this is an urgent and immediate call for your attention, support, and action," Prince Pahlavi said in a post on X on Friday.

"Last night you saw the millions of brave Iranians in the streets facing down live bullets. Today, they are facing not just bullets but a total communications blackout. No Internet. No landlines."

"Ali Khamenei, fearing the end of his criminal regime at the hands of the people and with the help of your powerful promise to support the protesters, has threatened the people on the streets with a brutal crack down. And he wants to use this blackout to murder these young heroes," the prince warned.

He said Trump's threat to intervene if the Islamic Republic kills protesters "has also kept the regime’s thugs at bay. But time is of the essence."

"The people will be on the streets again in an hour. I am asking you to help. You have proven and I know you are a man of peace and a man of your word. Please be prepared to intervene to help the people of Iran."

Rights group urges Iran to immediately end internet blackout

Jan 9, 2026, 15:09 GMT

The Committee to Protect Journalists on Friday called on Iran to immediately restore full internet access.

"This latest sweeping digital blackout in Tehran and other cities mirrors repeated shutdowns during major protests... used to silence dissent and obstruct reporting," the CPJ said.

"Such tactics violate freedom of expression and the public’s right to know. The international community must hold Iran accountable and press it to uphold international human rights obligations."

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