Articles in this Cluster
12-01-2026
Iran has warned it will retaliate if attacked by the US, as hundreds of protesters have been killed in an escalating government crackdown. The protests, which began over soaring inflation, now call for an end to the clerical rule of Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. The US has threatened to intervene, with President Donald Trump saying the US 'may have to act before a meeting.' Iran's parliament speaker warned that if the US attacked, both Israel and US military and shipping centres in the region would become legitimate targets. The BBC has verified footage showing rows of body bags at a morgue near Tehran, and hospitals have been overwhelmed with dead or injured protesters.
Entities: Iran, US, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Donald Trump, Tehran • Tone: urgent • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
Iranian protests continue for a second week with at least 538 deaths and 10,600 detentions reported. The Iranian government has issued stern threats against protesters and the US, warning of severe punishment and potential preemptive strikes. The US has been briefed on military options, but no decision has been made. The situation remains tense, with Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei holding the power to decide on going to war.
Entities: Iran, United States, Israel, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Donald Trump • Tone: urgent • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The US President Donald Trump has been briefed on new military options for potential strikes against Iran amid ongoing protests against the country's theocratic government. The protests, which began on December 28, have resulted in at least 538 deaths and over 10,600 arrests. Trump has expressed support for the protesters and warned that the US would intervene if the Iranian government starts killing people. The US has imposed heavy sanctions on Iran and has not ruled out cyberattacks as a potential response. Iranian officials have threatened to target US military bases and ships in the region if the US launches an attack.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Israel, Iraq • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article discusses the ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, which began two weeks ago in response to the country's economic crisis and have since spread across the nation. President Trump's warnings to Iranian leaders have been seen as encouraging protesters, but analysts are divided on whether they will deter the government's crackdown. At least 65 people have been killed, and the government has shut down the internet to prevent the international community from witnessing the events. Experts say the regime is likely to continue its brutal response to the protests.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Tehran, Maziar Bahari, Holly Dagres • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article discusses the escalating tensions between the US and Iran, with President Donald Trump potentially targeting Iran after Venezuela and Greenland. Protests in Iran have entered their third week, with over 500 people killed as the government suppresses dissent. Trump has declared that the US will come to the rescue of the protestors, and White House officials are outlining potential options, including military, cyber, and economic measures. Iran's influence over the Strait of Hormuz, a vital artery for global crude, poses a significant risk of disruption to energy markets. Experts warn that Iran is capable of retaliating against the US, particularly by attacking regional energy infrastructure.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Venezuela, Greenland, Strait of Hormuz • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Strait of Hormuz is back in focus due to the possibility of a US intervention in Iran, which could lead to a disruption in the waterway and a global oil crisis. Industry experts warn that a military confrontation could provoke Iran to choke off the Strait, causing oil prices to surge by $10 to $20 per barrel. However, analysts see a low probability of a full closure due to the US naval presence and Iran's limited capability. The article discusses the potential consequences of a disruption, including a global oil and gas crisis, and the likelihood of selective US strikes on Iran.
Entities: Strait of Hormuz, Iran, US, Donald Trump, Saul Kavonic • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The US President Donald Trump is considering various options to respond to the ongoing protests in Iran, where hundreds have been killed and internet access has been cut off. The options being considered include cyber attacks, sabotage, drone strikes, and missile strikes against Iranian military and civilian targets. Trump's aides are briefing him on the possible interventions, which could also involve boosting anti-government sources online and imposing more sanctions on the Iranian regime. However, experts warn that a strong strike could lead to greater cohesion within the regime and a broader escalation. Iran has warned the US and Israel against any intervention, threatening to retaliate against US energy infrastructure and military assets in the region.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Israel, Matt Gertken • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Iranian regime is facing a significant challenge as widespread protests continue to escalate across the country. The protests, which began on December 28th, have grown in scale and spread to all 31 provinces, involving diverse groups including women, middle-aged and middle-class individuals, and young and jobless men. The situation is reminiscent of the 2009 demonstrations and possibly even the 1979 revolution that overthrew the shah. The regime's options for responding to the crisis are narrowing, and the international community, including the United States under Donald Trump, is taking notice. The protests pose a significant test of the regime's staying power against the will of its people.
Entities: Iran, Donald Trump, Israel, United States, Iranian regime • Tone: analytical • Sentiment: neutral • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article discusses Israel's stance on the ongoing protests in Iran, with a focus on its concerns regarding Iran's ballistic missiles and nuclear program. Israel's intelligence services are monitoring the situation closely, with a particular emphasis on remote locations in Iran where ballistic-missile launchers are hidden. The increased activity around these launchers has prompted Israel to put its forces on high alert. The article also touches on the broader implications of the protests in Iran and the potential for regime change.
Entities: Israel, Iran, Binyamin Netanyahu, Donald Trump, Uganda • Tone: analytical • Sentiment: neutral • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Economist's Middle East & Africa section covers various news stories, including Iran's protests and the international response, Israel's stance on Iran, Uganda's elections, and several other regional issues. The articles discuss the complexities of the Iranian regime, Israel's concerns about Iran's ballistic missiles and nuclear program, and the potential for regime change. Other stories cover Uganda's elections, Saudi Arabia's new year celebrations, and various African issues, including demography, gold mining, and online prophecies. The section provides in-depth analysis of global events and their implications.
Entities: Iran, Israel, Donald Trump, Binyamin Netanyahu, Uganda • Tone: analytical • Sentiment: neutral • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article discusses the options available to the United States in response to the ongoing protests in Iran, with a focus on the stance of former President Donald Trump, who has expressed support for the protesters and threatened intervention if the Iranian regime kills demonstrators. The article provides context on the protests, which began on December 28th, and the reactions of various stakeholders, including the Iranian regime and Israeli Prime Minister Binyamin Netanyahu.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Islamic Republic, Binyamin Netanyahu • Tone: analytical • Sentiment: neutral • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Iranian regime is cracking down on widespread protests that have entered their third week, with the government using harsh measures to suppress the demonstrations. The protests, which initially centered on economic grievances, have evolved into a broader movement against the regime. US President Donald Trump has expressed support for the protest movement and has warned the Iranian leadership of potential military action. Analysts caution that a military intervention may have limited impact, as the regime's security apparatus remains intact. The protests have resulted in thousands of arrests and hundreds of deaths, with the regime imposing internet and telephone blackouts to limit visibility into the situation.
Entities: Iran, Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Holly Dagres, Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article reports on the ongoing protests in Iran, where at least 544 people have been killed and over 10,681 arrested as the government cracks down on anti-regime demonstrations. The protests, which have entered their third week, are driven by anger over the economy, authoritarian rule, and the government's deadly response to protesters. The US is weighing potential military intervention, with President Donald Trump saying that Iran has called to negotiate. The Iranian government has warned of retaliation if the US intervenes, and has called for pro-regime rallies. Experts warn of the risk of civil war and the need for caution.
Entities: Iran, Donald Trump, Trita Parsi, Quincy Institute for Responsible Statecraft, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article analyzes President Donald Trump's actions during the first week of 2026, describing his aggressive approach to domestic and foreign policy. Trump has taken a hardline stance on immigration, ousted Venezuela's dictator Nicolás Maduro, and is considering military action against Iran. The article suggests that Trump's actions are driven by a desire for retribution, global domination, and a disregard for constitutional curbs and international law. Trump's presidency is characterized as unpredictable and potentially disastrous, with far-reaching consequences for the US and the world.
Entities: Donald Trump, Venezuela, Nicolás Maduro, Greenland, Renee Good • Tone: negative • Sentiment: negative • Intent: analyze
12-01-2026
Armed protesters clashed with security forces in Tehran, Iran, as nationwide anti-regime demonstrations entered their 14th day, resulting in 65 deaths and 2,311 arrests. The protests, which began as a response to economic hardship and government corruption, have spread to 190 cities across Iran. President Donald Trump warned that the US would respond forcefully if the Iranian regime resorts to mass violence against protesters. The international community is watching the situation closely, with several airlines suspending flights to Iran.
Entities: Iran, Tehran, Donald Trump, Khamenei, Reza Pahlavi • Tone: urgent • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Iranian government's crackdown on nationwide protests continues with the use of drone surveillance, resulting in a significant number of deaths and arrests. The protests, which began on December 28, have evolved into the largest anti-regime demonstrations in years, with reports of mass killings and a near-total internet blackout. The Iranian government has deployed drones to monitor and control the demonstrations, with experts warning of an escalation in the use of intimidation and force. The US President Donald Trump has warned Tehran against harming protesters and has expressed support for the protesters.
Entities: Iran, Donald Trump, Cameron Chell, Center for Human Rights in Iran, Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) • Tone: negative • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
A protester scaled the Iranian Embassy in London and tore down the Islamic Republic's flag, replacing it with the pre-1979 'Lion and Sun' emblem, amid ongoing anti-regime protests in Iran. The incident occurred as Iran faces significant unrest, with at least 72 people killed and over 2,300 detained. The US President Trump has warned the Iranian regime that the US will protect protesters if necessary, while the Iranian regime has threatened to crack down on protesters, with the Attorney General warning that participants could be considered 'enemies of God', a charge carrying the death penalty.
Entities: Iran, London, Iranian Embassy, United States, President Trump • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Iranian government has triggered an internet 'kill switch,' severely restricting citizens' access to the internet amid ongoing nationwide protests against the regime. The blackout, which has reduced internet connectivity to below 2% of normal levels, is believed to be an attempt to hide alleged human rights abuses by security forces. At least 65 people have been killed and over 2,300 arrested since the protests began. The international community, including the US, has condemned the regime's actions, with President Donald Trump warning Iran's leaders against using force on protesters.
Entities: Iran, NetBlocks, Alp Toker, Amnesty International, Human Rights Activists in Iran • Tone: negative • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
Iranian hospitals are overwhelmed with injuries as anti-government protests continue across the country, with at least 72 people killed and over 2,300 detained. The protests began as demonstrations against inflation and the collapse of the rial, but have spread to universities and provincial cities, with young men clashing with security forces. The US has warned Iran that it will respond forcefully if the regime resorts to violence, with President Trump stating that the US is 'watching the situation very carefully'. The Iranian regime has signaled a coming clampdown, with the attorney general warning that protesters will be considered 'enemies of God', a death penalty charge.
Entities: Iran, Tehran, Shiraz, Donald Trump, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio discussed the possibility of U.S. military intervention in Iran amid ongoing nationwide protests against the Iranian regime. The protests have entered their second week, with the Iranian government attempting to suppress them by triggering an internet 'kill switch.' President Donald Trump has expressed support for the protesters, warning that the U.S. would respond forcefully if the regime resorts to mass violence. Iran's parliament speaker has threatened that the U.S. military and Israel would be 'legitimate targets' if America strikes the Islamic Republic.
Entities: Benjamin Netanyahu, Marco Rubio, Iran, Israel, United States • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
US President Donald Trump stated that Iran's leadership is seeking to negotiate after he threatened military intervention if protesters were killed. The protests in Iran have resulted in a significant number of deaths, with estimates ranging from 192 to over 2,000. The international community has reacted, with China opposing foreign interference and Germany's Chancellor condemning the violence against protesters. Iran's Foreign Minister claimed the protests were turned violent to provide an excuse for US intervention. The son of Iran's ousted shah expressed willingness to return to Iran to lead a democratic transition.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, US, China, Germany • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article reports on the escalating anti-government protests in Iran, with a US-based human rights group stating that over 500 people have been killed, mostly by live ammunition or pellet gunfire. The protests, which began in late December over the decline of the rial currency, have continued into their third week. US President Donald Trump has warned of 'strong options' against Iran, while the Iranian government has accused 'terrorists' of causing the unrest. The situation is tense, with the US and Israel on high alert for potential intervention.
Entities: Iran, US, Donald Trump, Human Rights Activists News Agency, Masoud Pezeshkian • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The Iranian government has announced three days of national mourning for its security forces killed in anti-government demonstrations across the country. Videos emerging from Iran show a multitude of body bags at a forensics institute in Tehran, with some reports suggesting that over 250 people were killed during protests on Thursday night. The regime appears to be trying to prevent large-scale mourning, which could give momentum to the protests, by restricting access to the bodies and forcing families to give their loved ones secret burials. The protests have been ongoing for two weeks, with over 500 people reportedly killed, and the international community is weighing its response, with the US president promising retaliation if the Iranians start firing on protesters.
Entities: Iran, Tehran, Kahrizak, Robina Aminian, Kermanshah • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The death toll from protests in Iran has risen to at least 544 as President Trump says Iran has proposed negotiations after his threat to strike the Islamic Republic over its crackdown on demonstrators. The protests, which began over economic issues, have intensified and grown into calls challenging Iran's theocracy. Trump stated that his administration is setting up a meeting with Tehran but may have to act first due to the mounting death toll and continued arrests of protesters. Iran has warned of retaliation against the US and Israel if force is used to protect demonstrators.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Israel, Tehran • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
Former President Donald Trump stated on Sunday that he intends to discuss with Elon Musk the possibility of restoring internet services in Iran, which have been shut down for four days amid ongoing anti-government protests. Trump mentioned that Musk's company, SpaceX, which offers a satellite internet service called Starlink, is 'very good at that kind of thing.' The two have had a fluctuating relationship since Musk helped fund Trump's presidential campaign, but they appear to have rekindled their connection, having dinner together at Trump's Mar-A-Lago resort earlier this month. Iran's authorities have blacked out internet services as protests continue against the government, sparked by soaring inflation and demands to end clerical rule.
Entities: Donald Trump, Elon Musk, Iran, SpaceX, Starlink • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
President Trump stated that the US may need to take action against Iran before a potential meeting to negotiate, amid ongoing protests in the country. Trump claimed that Iran's leaders had called him to negotiate, but he emphasized that the US is considering 'strong options' in response to Iran's crackdown on protesters, which has resulted in at least 496 deaths and over 10,600 arrests. Trump vowed that the US would 'hit them at levels that they've never been hit before' if Iran retaliates. Iran's parliament speaker warned that the US and Israel could be 'legitimate targets' if the US attacks Iran.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, United States, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, Israel • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
Antigovernment protests in Iran have grown in size and violence over the past few days, with security forces cracking down on demonstrations that began over economic woes two weeks ago. The protests have broadened into a mass movement challenging Iran's authoritarian clerical rulers, with nearly 200 people killed and over 10,000 arrested. The government has acknowledged economic difficulties but has also blamed external forces for fomenting unrest. The international community has reacted with caution, with the US president pledging to aid protesters if the government uses lethal force, while lawmakers have expressed wariness about American interference.
Entities: Iran, United States, Israel, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, President Trump • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: inform
12-01-2026
The article discusses the growing concerns among Americans regarding President Donald Trump's increasingly interventionist foreign policy, particularly with regards to Iran and Venezuela. Trump's recent statements on exploring military options against Iran have sparked confusion and doubt among the public, who had initially perceived him as an isolationist leader. The article highlights the divided public opinion on Trump's actions, with his supporters backing his decisions while others express apprehension. The piece also touches upon the lack of clear messaging from the administration regarding the goals and motivations behind their actions, leading to widespread confusion and skepticism.
Entities: Donald Trump, Iran, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Venezuela, Nicolas Maduro • Tone: neutral • Sentiment: negative • Intent: analyze
