At least 648 people have died and more than 10,600 arrested as Iran faces massive protests nationwide. The demonstrations are the biggest challenge to the Islamic Republic in recent years. They began on December 28, sparked by economic struggles and long-standing anger over political repression and civil rights abuses. Initially tolerant, the government swiftly reversed course. Videos showed security forces storming hospitals and beating patients and doctors, causing outrage. Authorities shut down the internet and blocked international calls, cutting off outside contact. Officials have threatened death sentences for protesters, accusing them of working for Israel and the US. Donald Trump has warned of possible strong military action against Iran. He also threatened any country doing business with Iran with a 25% US tariff. The White House said Trump is "unafraid to use military force on Iran." Iran’s foreign minister claimed the protests were "under total control." Eskandar Sadeghi-Boroujerdi, a Middle East politics researcher at St Andrews University, explained the unrest reflects a deep pool of discontent due to Iran’s water crisis, air pollution, power shortages, and soaring inflation — food prices alone have risen over 70%, with bread costs up 110%, hitting the poorest hardest. Sadeghi-Boroujerdi said the protests are not just about money but are also deeply political. He pointed to past movements, including the 2022 Women, Life, Freedom protests and the 2009 Green Movement, which were also harshly suppressed. The Islamic Republic is weaker than ever, after years of sanctions, economic hardship, and failed regional policies. The regime faces internal division and widespread anger. Former Iranian political leaders remain silent rather than fully backing the state’s claims blaming foreign plots. Some protesters and diaspora groups call for the return of the deposed Shah, though this support is seen more as desperation than consensus. Iran remains politically diverse with many voices suppressed but still present. Trump claimed Iran’s leader reached out to propose talks but warned military steps are possible. Sadeghi-Boroujerdi noted it is unclear if any deal will happen given Iran’s complex power structure. He said assassinations of regime figures are more likely than full military intervention, citing last June’s 12-day war involving Iran’s nuclear sites. The situation remains fluid as Iran struggles with growing unrest and the threat of international pressure amid a brutal crackdown.