Iranian Authorities Arrest 139 Foreign Nationals Amid Protests

Iranian police have reported the arrest of 139 foreign nationals in Yazd province during ongoing anti-government protests that erupted in late December 2025. The protests, initially sparked by economic hardships, have escalated into widespread demonstrations against the Iranian government, marking the most significant challenge to its authority since the 1979 Islamic Revolution. The police chief of Yazd, Ahmad Negahban, stated that those detained were involved in "organising, inciting, and directing riotous actions," and some allegedly had connections with networks outside Iran.

Iran arrests 139 foreigners in Yazd over protest allegationsIran says 139 foreign nationals arrested in Yazd over protestsIranian Police Say 139 Foreigners Arrested Over Unrest in Yazd ProvinceIran arrests at least 139 foreigners in connection with protestsTehran arrests 139 foreigners in central Iran during deadly country-wide protestsAlmost 140 foreigners arrested in central Iran over protestsAlmost 140 foreigners arrested in central Iran over protests

The protests began on December 28, 2025, primarily in response to rising living costs but quickly evolved into broader anti-government demonstrations. Iranian authorities have acknowledged over 3,000 deaths during the unrest, although human rights organizations, such as the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), report significantly higher figures, estimating at least 6,854 deaths, primarily among protesters. The Iranian government attributes the unrest to "terrorist acts" allegedly instigated by the United States and Israel.

Iran arrests at least 139 foreigners in connection with protests

Iran's judiciary has warned of severe consequences for those involved in the protests, with spokesperson Asghar Jahangir stating, "Those who played a role in this American sedition and supported it will not be spared." The Iranian government maintains that the protests began as peaceful demonstrations but devolved into violence, which they claim was exacerbated by foreign influence.

Iran arrests 139 foreigners in Yazd over protest allegations

Human rights groups have condemned the Iranian government's crackdown on protests, highlighting the arrests of thousands, including students and activists. Reports indicate that detainees face risks of torture and unfair trials, with Amnesty International noting that many are at risk of enforced disappearance and arbitrary executions. Critics argue that the government's narrative of foreign incitement serves to deflect responsibility for the violent suppression of dissent.

Almost 140 foreigners arrested in central Iran over protests

While Iranian authorities claim the death toll stands at 3,117, HRANA and other rights groups assert that the actual number of fatalities is likely much higher, with estimates suggesting up to 30,000 deaths. Additionally, the nationalities of the arrested foreign nationals have not been disclosed, leaving gaps in understanding the full implications of these arrests.

Almost 140 foreigners arrested in central Iran over protests

As protests continue, international pressure on Iran is mounting, with several countries imposing sanctions on officials involved in the violent suppression of demonstrators. The situation remains fluid, with ongoing discussions about potential negotiations between Iran and the United States, although tensions remain high.

Tehran arrests 139 foreigners in central Iran during deadly country-wide protests

• “These foreign individuals played an active role in organising, inciting, and directing riotous actions, and in some cases were in contact with networks abroad,” — Ahmad Negahban, Yazd Police Chief

Iran arrests 139 foreigners in Yazd over protest allegations

• “Those who played a role in this American sedition and supported it will not be spared,” — Asghar Jahangir, Judiciary Spokesperson

Iranian Police Say 139 Foreigners Arrested Over Unrest in Yazd Province

• “America should know that if it starts a war, this time it will be a regional war,” — Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, Supreme Leader of Iran

Tehran arrests 139 foreigners in central Iran during deadly country-wide protests