Nationwide protests across Iran, ignited by plummeting currency values and soaring living costs in late December 2025, have been met with a brutal crackdown by the Iranian regime. As of January 14, 2026, Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) reported at least 3,428 protesters killed, a figure they describe as an absolute minimum. Sources within Iran's Ministry of Health and Medical Education indicated that between January 8 and 12 alone, approximately 3,500 people, including protesters and state forces, died. Other estimates from groups like Iran International and CBS News, citing activist groups inside Iran, suggest the death toll could be significantly higher, ranging from 12,000 to 20,000. Disturbing visual evidence has emerged from Tehran, with multiple credible outlets, including CBS News, Global News (via AFP), Yahoo News (BBC Verify), and India Today's OSINT team, verifying videos showing numerous bodies, some with visible gunshot wounds, piled at morgues in Tehran or its suburbs, notably the Kahrizak Forensic Medicine Center. These reports often coincide with severe internet blackouts imposed by the government, hindering independent verification and communication. Amidst this escalating violence, fears of a potential US military intervention are looming. US President Donald Trump has publicly warned Iran against the killings and has been presented with and is reportedly weighing various military and non-military options for decisive action against the regime. Discussions among top US administration officials have focused on potential kinetic strikes on facilities related to Iran's security services. As a precautionary measure, some US personnel have been urged to leave the Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar, signalling heightened regional tensions. Iranian officials, in turn, have threatened retaliation against US bases and ships if an attack occurs. This rapidly unfolding situation has profound geopolitical implications, particularly for India's strategic and economic interests in the Middle East.