Global Reactions Intensify Amid Iran's Violent Crackdown on Protesters

International pressure mounts on Iran as global leaders react to escalating violence against protesters. Finland summons Iran's Charge d'Affaires, while U.S. President Trump pledges support for Iranian demonstrators. The EU plans additional sanctions against Iranian officials. Exiled Crown Prince Pahlavi calls for continued resistance and urges military defection.

Authorities in Finland have summoned Iran's Charge d'Affaires, responding to the increasing violence against protesters by Iranian officials. Finland's Ministry of Foreign Affairs demanded an end to aggression and the release of detained demonstrators in a tweet, emphasizing the importance of free access to information, including online access.

Iran has been engulfed in protests since late December 2025, with the unrest drawing widespread global attention. The Times of Israel, citing Reuters and an Iranian official, reported that approximately 2,000 people have died amid the protests challenging Iran's regime, marking the highest confirmed death toll to date.

Addressing the protesters, Iran's exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi issued a video message on X, asserting that the global community was acknowledging their bravery and would take action. Pahlavi urged demonstrators to persist and not allow the regime to depict the situation as normal further, highlighting the altered relationship between the citizens and the ruling system.

Pahlavi implored citizens to document human rights abuses during the protests and send a direct message to military personnel, urging them to protect civilians and align with the protestors. Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump declared that leaders are closely monitoring the situation and contemplating responses while reiterating a desire for increased freedom in Iran.

Reacting to the crisis, Trump canceled meetings with Iranian officials and assured protestors that help was imminent. Additionally, European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen announced plans for new sanctions targeting those responsible for Iran's crackdown, denouncing the excessive violence witnessed.

(With inputs from agencies.)