Iran Detains Foreign Nationals, Blames ‘External Interference

Iranian authorities have arrested 139 foreign nationals in the central city of Yazd amid the country’s widespread anti-government protests, state media and police statements report. Officials say those held were involved in “organising, inciting and directing riotous actions,” and allege that some were in contact with networks outside Iran. The nationalities of those detained have not been disclosed. �

euronews

Police described the arrests as part of efforts to crack down on unrest that initially began in late December over rising living costs and quickly expanded into nationwide demonstrations demanding political change. Iranian authorities contend that the protests evolved into violent “riots” and blame foreign adversaries such as the United States and Israel for stoking unrest. �

euronews

In addition, separate state media reports have noted the arrest of four other foreigners in connection with the unrest in Tehran province, where homemade stun grenades were reportedly seized, further highlighting Tehran’s narrative of external instigation. �

The Daily Star

Context: Unrest and Government Crackdown

The protests — the most significant challenge to the Iranian regime since the 1979 Islamic Revolution — have been met with a harsh security response. Rights groups estimate thousands of deaths with heavy civilian casualties, and reports indicate a sweeping mass arrest campaign that has seen tens of thousands detained across the country. �

Reuters

The government maintains that more than 3,000 people died during the unrest but claims many were security personnel, while independent groups put the figure considerably higher. �

euronews

International Reaction and Broader Impact

Iran’s domestic approach has spurred international criticism. In response to the crackdown on protesters and broader human rights concerns, the European Union designated Iran’s Revolutionary Guard as a terrorist organization, imposing sanctions on officials and entities tied to the repression. Tehran dismissed the move as politically motivated. �

AP News

Meanwhile, tensions remain high with Western governments, and the situation has drawn global attention due to both the scale of domestic unrest and Tehran’s allegations of foreign interference.