As protests over economic conditions in Iran enter their third week across multiple cities, reports of casualties amongst demonstrators continue to surface amidst a widespread internet blackout. Simultaneously, pro-government rallies have been staged in various regions, condemning what state media describes as ‘acts of rioting’.
The human rights monitoring organization, HRANA, has reportedly published footage allegedly showing a large number of bodies of protesters at a forensic facility in Kahrizak, Tehran province. HRANA estimates the number of bodies could reach 250, with families attempting to identify their deceased relatives. Unconfirmed reports suggest that the organization has reported that 490 protesters and 48 security personnel have been killed, and over 10,600 individuals have been arrested since December 28th. Other accounts claim the death toll exceeds 500.
According to the Tasnim news agency, 109 security and police officers have been killed in what they describe as riots across several regions. NetBlocks, an NGO monitoring internet access, has confirmed that widespread internet disruptions have persisted for over four days. Reuters news agency quotes sources within Iran stating that some Iranians are utilizing Starlink, the satellite internet service owned by Elon Musk, to circumvent the internet shutdown.
In contrast, Iranian state television reports that demonstrations denouncing ‘rioters’ have taken place in cities including Isfahan, Rasht, Kerman, Birjand, and Arak, as well as in Tehran, originating from Revolution Square. Participants in these rallies waved flags of the Islamic Republic and participated in prayers for the security forces allegedly killed by ‘troublemakers’, according to authorities.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has reportedly characterized the pro-government demonstrations as a ‘warning’ to the United States, whose President, Donald Trump, had previously threatened military intervention should the crackdown on protesters continue. The Iranian government had previously declared a national mourning period. DZWatch continues to monitor the situation as it develops.
