Three major European powers, France, Britain and Germany condemned the killing of protesters in Iran and urged Iranian authorities to refrain from violence, the three governments announced late on January 9.

"The Iranian authorities have the responsibility to protect their own population and must allow freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of reprisal," the statement said initially, according to French President Emmanuel Macron's office.

The condemnation came as Iran was largely cut off from the outside world after authorities shut down internet access in an apparent attempt to curb growing unrest. Videos circulating online showed buildings set ablaze during anti-government protests in cities across the country.

Rights groups have documented between 36 and 45 deaths in nearly two weeks of demonstrations that began on December 28 however, there is expected to be an updated total of more than 100 deaths according to the latest rough estimates by IntelliNews.

Iranian state television broadcast footage of clashes and fires, whilst the semi-official Tasnim news agency reported that several police officers were killed overnight.

Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vowed not to back down in a televised address on January 9, accusing demonstrators of acting on behalf of exiled opposition groups and the United States.

Tehran's public prosecutor warned that those involved in sabotage or violent clashes with security forces could face the death penalty.

Protests initially spurred by Iran's deteriorating economy and rising inflation have been held in all 31 of the country's provinces, including areas considered typically loyal to the state. More than 2,000 people have been arrested, according to human rights monitors.

Iran's Ministry of Information and Communications Technology said the decision to shut down the internet was taken "by the competent security authorities under the prevailing circumstances of the country."

In response to the unrest, Iran's central bank governor has been replaced and a new system of subsidies to support households purchasing essential goods has been announced.

Political groups previously allied to President Masoud Pezeshkian during his 2024 election campaign have called for institutional and sustainable reforms and the protection of the right to protest.

Khamenei said the government would speak with protesters but that "rioters should be put in their place."

The UK Government said it urged Iran to protect fundamental freedoms. US President Donald Trump said the US is ready to intervene if there is further violence against protesters.