Protests persisted in Iran on Friday night, as depicted in online videos, despite the government’s warning to quash demonstrators following the shutdown of the internet and disruption of telephone communication. The ongoing protests, which initially erupted in late December due to Iran’s struggling economy, have evolved into a significant challenge to the government.

State media has labeled the protesters as “terrorists,” potentially paving the way for a harsh crackdown, despite U.S. President Donald Trump’s promise to support peaceful demonstrators if needed. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei criticized the protesters for damaging their own streets to appease President Trump, urging him to focus on domestic issues.

German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer, and French President Emmanuel Macron issued a joint statement condemning the reported violence against protesters and calling on Iran to allow freedom of expression without fear of retaliation. Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney also denounced the Iranian regime’s actions against its citizens.

Iranian Nobel Peace Prize laureate Shirin Ebadi urged Western governments to speak out against Iran’s regime, denouncing its cruel governance. President Trump reiterated his warning to strike Iran if protesters are harmed, emphasizing a strong response without committing ground troops.

Despite the government’s efforts to cut off internet access, short videos circulated by activists showed protesters expressing dissent against the government in various Iranian cities. The protests continued into Friday night, defying security warnings, with some videos depicting large gatherings and chants against the government.

Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi, son of the exiled Shah of Iran, played a pivotal role in rallying protesters against the current regime. The demonstrations have witnessed violence, resulting in numerous casualties and detentions, according to reports from human rights groups.

Pahlavi’s calls for protests have galvanized public discontent, leading to widespread demonstrations against the government. The chants during the protests included calls for regime change and expressed support for the exiled shah. The situation remains tense as the government intensifies its crackdown on dissent.