India, Jan. 12 -- Iran has entered one of its most turbulent periods in recent years as nationwide protests extend into their second week, met with fierce repression by the state. Began as public outrage over economic instability broadened to become a full-blown political crisis that is once again forcing Iran's leadership to balance internal control against growing international pressure. Official statements now characterize the unrest as an external threat rather than a domestic uprising, even as casualty figures and arrests continue to rise.

Iranian officials say that the situation remains under complete control. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has been quoted as saying that the security forces have regained complete control of the re...