Iranian state media says over 3,100 people have died during recent anti-government protests, while rights groups warn the real number could be much higher.
Iranian state television has reported the official death toll from recent anti-government protests for the first time, saying 3,117 people have died during the crackdown. The unrest has also been made worse by internet shutdowns across the country.
In a statement broadcast by Press TV on Wednesday, an observer in Iran said that 2,427 of those killed were civilians and members of the security forces.
However, the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), based in the United States, gave a higher number. The group said at least 4,519 people were killed while protests were ongoing.
Al Jazeera later reported that HRANA believes the real number could reach 9,049 deaths, though this figure is still being reviewed and verified.
The protests began in late December, first led by shop owners angry about the falling value of the currency and rising living costs. The movement later spread quickly and turned into wider protests against the government.
Iranian authorities described the demonstrations as “terrorist acts” and claimed the violence was encouraged by the United States and Israel.
The government’s response has drawn strong criticism from former US President Donald Trump, who condemned the crackdown and warned of possible support for the protesters.
Several human rights groups said many protesters were killed because security forces used excessive force.
Amnesty International also reported that Iranian security units were deployed in streets and on rooftops, and used firearms against unarmed people.
Source: Al Jazeera, Press TV, HRANA reports