https://truthsocial.com/group/q/posts/115917189154663897
Key Updates on Iran- January 18, 2026
(Day 18–19 of protests)
Internet blackout partially lifted:
The regime restored limited connectivity in some areas (Tehran, Isfahan, Shiraz) yesterday afternoon (January 17), but it remains throttled (~30–50% of normal speed in most provinces). Full blackout ended for ~12–18 hours in major cities, allowing more videos and live streams to emerge. Opposition says it’s a tactical move to “normalize” after international pressure and to let people “vent” without coordination. VPN usage is still heavily jammed.
Protests re-emerging but smaller: Demonstrations flared again in Tehran (bazaar, universities), Tabriz, Mashhad, Zahedan, Kermanshah, and Rasht after partial restoration. Crowds smaller than peak days but chants remain bold (”Death to Khamenei,” “Woman, Life, Freedom,” “Javid Shah”).
Some clashes reported; security forces fired tear gas in Tehran University area. No mass rallies yet—many are cautious due to ongoing arrests.
Casualties & arrests:
HRANA (most reliable tracker) now confirms 2,914 killed (up from ~2,677), including 47 security forces. Arrests exceed 22,000 (many minors; torture reports widespread). Amnesty/HRW warn true toll could be higher due to blackout/hospital raids. Regime admits ~150 security deaths but claims “rioters” are foreign-backed.
Khamenei & regime:
Khamenei spoke via state TV yesterday—vowed “severe punishment” for protesters, accused US/Israel of orchestration, said “the Islamic Republic will stand firm.” No sign of flight (Moscow plan still rumor). Some local police defections rumored in Ilam/Kermanshah, but IRGC/Basij remain loyal.
Reza Pahlavi:
Posted daily in Farsi, urging coordinated strikes on regime symbols today/tomorrow. Monarchist flags/chants more visible in videos. Still no unified opposition leadership.
International: Trump reiterated “help is on the way” (no specifics). UN condemned crackdown; EU threatened more sanctions. Starlink access still limited/jammed but helping in pockets.
Bottom line:
Partial internet restoration let protests flare again, but regime’s grip holds—no collapse or mass defections. Crackdown continues; death toll climbing. Situation volatile but not at tipping point yet.
Praying for the Iranian people—may the Lord protect them and bring justice.
https://x.com/DI313_/status/2012607132076777902
Defense Intelligence
@DI313_
Four U.S. Air Force C 17A Globemaster III heavy cargo aircraft are currently en route to Diego Garcia, the critical U.S. U.K. military base in the Indian Ocean.
Diego Garcia serves as the primary staging hub for long range bombers including the B 2 and B 52 and plays a central role in major Middle East operations.
This notable movement of strategic airlift assets is being widely interpreted as an early and serious indicator of U.S. preparations for potential military action against Iran.