Reports related to demonstrations and public protests
Ehsan Shirkhani, a 35-year-old Turkish citizen from Malekan County in East Azerbaijan Province, died on Tuesday, May 12, 2026, after Basij forces at a checkpoint in Bonab County shot his vehicle with direct gunfire, striking him four times.
Alaeddin Boroujerdi, a member of Iran's Parliament National Security and Foreign Policy Commission, stated that the United States must accept current realities and engage in negotiations to end the state of war. Boroujerdi also emphasized that Iran will not relinquish control over the Strait of Hormuz or negotiate regarding nuclear enrichment.
On January 15, 2026, an Iranian army spokesman claimed that controlling the Strait of Hormuz would double Iran's oil income and enhance its foreign political influence, asserting that the current conflict will permanently alter the status quo.
A bipartisan group of U.S. lawmakers called on the United Kingdom to expedite the designation of Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization.
President Donald Trump of the United States has rejected the Islamic Republic of Iran's 14-article proposal, coinciding with the continued closure of the Strait of Hormuz, increasing the likelihood of renewed military confrontation between Tehran and Washington.
The Dominican Republic has designated Hezbollah and the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as terrorist organizations.
Saeed Siyah-Sarani, Secretary of the Sea Light Path Headquarters, stated that without the Islamic Republic's approval, not a single liter of oil would be permitted to pass through the Strait of Hormuz. He also declared that vessels passing through the strait must obtain permission, communicate in Persian, and cross from designated points.
The US military is contemplating renaming its operations in Iran to "Operation SledgeHammer" should the conflict persist, according to NBC.
In late March 2026, the Saudi Air Force conducted secret strikes on Iranian soil in retaliation for Iranian attacks on Saudi territory, marking the first time Saudi Arabia has directly attacked Iran. This led to a reduction in Iranian strikes on Saudi territory, from over 105 weekly to about 25, and contributed to a quiet deal reached the week before the broader U.S.-Iran ceasefire on April 7th.
Prince Reza Pahlavi, speaking at the annual Politico security summit, called for a coordinated strategy to end the Iranian regime, including a clear message for military and security forces to defect and join the people, only when protesters have equal capacity to confront the regime's repressive forces.
In 2026, CENTCOM recognized thousands of service members in the Middle East with awards, promotions, and new leadership roles.
In 2026, thousands of U.S. service members serving in the Middle East were recognized for exceptional performance through awards, promotions, and new leadership roles.
