Trump considers strong action on Iran as unrest death toll tops 500 and Tehran offers dialogue

Protesters participate in a demonstration in Berlin, Germany, in support of the nationwide mass protests in Iran against the government, Saturday, Jan. 10, 2026. (AP Photo/Ebrahim Noroozi)

Protests sparked by soaring inflation and the sharp fall of the Iranian rial have intensified, pushing the death toll beyond 500. According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRNA), at least 490 protesters and 48 security personnel were killed over the past two weeks. Reuters cited activists inside and outside Iran who placed the total number of deaths at 538, highlighting the scale of the crackdown. More than 10,600 people were reportedly arrested during the unrest. Demonstrations have also drawn international attention, with protesters gathering in cities such as Berlin to criticise the Iranian regime. Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump said Washington was weighing its military options for a possible intervention in Tehran, further raising tensions amid the continuing protests.

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