Iran protests: Death toll rises to 16 amid ongoing crackdown

At least 16 people have been killed and over 500 arrested amid a government crackdown on ongoing protests in Iran, according to human rights groups. The demonstrations, which began over the rising cost of living and a collapsing currency, have spread to at least 30 cities and evolved into political unrest. The situation has escalated with US President Donald Trump warning that Washington would intervene if civilians are harmed, stating the US is 'locked and loaded'. In response, an Iranian official accused the US and Israel of orchestrating the protests and warned of regional destabilization if the US intervenes.