Widespread arrests roil Iran weeks after security forces crushed protests - AP News
AP News
February 14, 2026
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Widespread arrests have shaken Iran following a harsh crackdown on protests earlier this year. The government's heavy-handed response to dissent has intensified amid growing international scrutiny. This situation underscores the ongoing tensions between authorities and citizens, particularly over economic grievances and political freedoms.
The unrest began in September 2022 when fuel price hikes sparked widespread protests across Iran. Security forces responded with lethal force, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries. This escalation marked a turning point, as public anger grew, leading to further demonstrations and calls for regime change. The government's decision to suppress these movements through mass arrests has only heightened tensions.
Currently, authorities are detaining activists, journalists, and political dissidents en masse. These arrests have created an atmosphere of fear, discouraging open opposition. International observers have
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Originally published on AP News on 2/14/2026