Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 05:57am on 17 Jan 2026,Saturday International
Protests in Iran appeared to ease this week amid a prolonged internet blackout and reports of a heavy crackdown. Rights groups said at least 3,000 protesters were killed, while some estimates placed the toll above 5,000. Despite the lull, a senior cleric called for harsh action against detainees. Ayatollah Ahmad Khatami urged that “armed protesters should be put to death,” according to state media. US President Donald Trump said executions had been halted, claiming it helped calm tensions. Internet services remain largely shut, though limited international calls have resumed in parts of the country. (PC: HT)
