In His Name, the Exalted   Press Statement The Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Mumbai wishes to provide the following clarifications regarding recent domestic developments in the Islamic Republic of Iran and certain misleading media narratives surrounding them: Guild-related and civil protests centered on economic demands, which emerged in some Iranian cities following fluctuations in the exchange rate from 18 December 2025, were initially peaceful in nature. However, after several days of targeted and organized incitement by the US and the Zionist regime, these gatherings deviated from their peaceful course and escalated into acts of violence. The Islamic Republic of Iran recognizes the right to protest and to hold peaceful assemblies. From the outset, at the highest levels of governance and policymaking, the authorities adopted an approach based on dialogue and engagement with the protesters. Within this framework, the President and the relevant ministers in the economic sector held direct meetings with the heads of guilds and chambers of commerce, during which practical solutions to address economic and livelihood-related concerns were examined and implemented. The adjustment of the exchange rate was an unavoidable measure taken in response to the illegal and inhumane sanctions imposed by the United States of America; sanctions that directly target the livelihoods and daily lives of the Iranian people. In this context, the Government of the Islamic Republic of Iran implemented a range of measures, including the unification of exchange rates, with the aim of reducing rent-seeking, enhancing transparency, and supporting vulnerable segments of society.   The peak of violence occurred on 8 January 2026, when trained and organized elements, using both military-grade and bladed weapons, brutally murdered police personnel and ordinary citizens. These elements were tasked with targeting the country’s economic, civil, healthcare, cultural, and religious infrastructure. Public threats by the US administration regarding interference in Iran’s internal protests provided a pretext for the escalation of violence and resulted in heavy casualties among ordinary civilians caused by elements affiliated with Zionist-backed sponsors. Prior to the securitization of the situation, law enforcement forces, despite direct attacks against police personnel and the martyrdom of several officers, refrained from using firearms and, in some cities, even took measures to protect peaceful protesters. The absence of finalized casualty figures is due to the existence of missing persons and the necessity of carefully distinguishing victims of terrorist riots from other cases. Accordingly, it is emphasized that all claimed statistics published by certain media outlets lack credible and documented foundations. Clear indicators of the terrorist nature of these crimes - including the mutilation and burning of bodies, as well as the professional use of weapons and precision targeting - are plainly evident. The manner of killings and acts of violence against police forces and ordinary citizens fully corresponds to internationally recognized definitions of terrorism and must be explicitly condemned by governments and international organizations. Despite economic challenges, the Iranian people demonstrated their firm support for the Islamic Republic of Iran through their million-strong participation in nationwide demonstrations on 12 January 2026 and in funeral ceremonies for the martyrs of national resistance against terrorism. Through this presence, they expressed their outrage and condemnation of terrorist rioters and their foreign sponsors.   Regarding the temporary restrictions imposed on internet access, it should be noted that, in light of the necessity to disrupt communication networks between commanders and field operatives of terrorist groups, as well as to prevent extensive, coordinated, and unprecedented cyberattacks against the country’s communication and internet infrastructure, a decision was made to temporarily limit access to the international internet. This measure was purely security-driven, precautionary, and temporary in nature, aimed at safeguarding citizens’ lives and protecting vital national infrastructure. Access is being gradually restored as stability returns and threats subside. With regard to the military threats issued by the United States against Iran, an examination of statements by American officials suggests that they have not yet reached a definitive conclusion. Nevertheless, the Islamic Republic of Iran is fully prepared for all possible scenarios. In conclusion, it must be recalled that the Zionist regime, relying on the United States, is pursuing a policy aimed at the fragmentation of large and influential countries in the region; a policy that endangers not only regional peace and stability but also international security.   Consulate General of the Islamic Republic of Iran – Mumbai