SHOTLIST:

WASHINGTON, DC, US (JAN. 8, 2026) (ANADOLU - ACCESS ALL)

1. US VICE PRESIDENT JD VANCE MAKING STATEMENTS WASHINGTON, DC, US - JAN. 8, 2026: US Vice President JD Vance said Washington is closely monitoring the ongoing protests in Iran and supports those participating in peaceful demonstrations, speaking during a White House briefing on Thursday, January 8.

Vance said the US stands with individuals who seek to organize freely and make their voices heard through peaceful means, stressing support for protesters defending their rights in Iran and elsewhere.

He also claimed the Iranian administration faces multiple problems and urged Tehran to engage in talks with the United States over its nuclear program, adding that President Donald Trump would decide future steps toward Iran.

US President Trump, in an interview with The Hugh Hewitt Show, warned that Iran would face severe consequences if authorities resort to killing protesters during unrest.

Iran has been rocked by waves of protests since last month, starting on Dec. 28 at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar, over the sharp depreciation of the Iranian rial and worsening economic conditions. Demonstrations later spread to several other cities across the country.

Iranian authorities have not released official figures on casualties. However, the Human Rights Activists News Agency said in a report on Wednesday that at least 38 people have been killed, including four members of the security forces.

The agency also reported dozens of injuries and 2,217 arrests.

An Iranian police officer was killed in clashes during protests near the capital Tehran, local media reported on Thursday.

Meanwhile, the Tasnim news agency said the number of police officers injured during the protests rose to 568, while 66 members of the paramilitary Basij forces were also wounded.