At least 36 people have been killed during ten days of protests across Iran, according to the Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). Of those confirmed dead, 34 were protesters and two were linked to security forces.
Iranian authorities have yet to release an official death toll, although they reported three security personnel had been killed. BBC Persian has so far verified the identities of 20 of the deceased.
HRANA also stated that over 60 protesters were injured and 2,076 people arrested amid demonstrations triggered by an economic crisis. The unrest has spread to 27 of Iran’s 31 provinces.
On Tuesday evening, semi-official Iranian media reported that a policeman was shot dead by what they described as “rioters” in Malekshahi, located in Ilam province. The region has witnessed extensive protests and violent crackdowns by security forces.
Earlier, security personnel were filmed deploying tear gas during clashes with demonstrators at Tehran’s Grand Bazaar. Protesters chanted slogans condemning Iran’s clerical rulers while expressing frustration over economic hardships.
The protests began on 28 December when shopkeepers in the capital took to the streets to express anger over the falling value of the Iranian rial. The currency has hit record lows over the past year, pushing inflation to 40%.
Economic sanctions tied to Iran’s nuclear program, combined with mismanagement and corruption, have further weakened the country’s economy. University students soon joined the demonstrations, helping spread unrest to cities nationwide.
On Friday, US President Donald Trump threatened intervention if Iranian security forces harmed peaceful protesters, stating: “We are locked and loaded and ready to go.”
The following day, Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei warned that “rioters should be put in their place” and affirmed that authorities would not “yield to the enemy.”
Judiciary chief Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei reiterated these views on Monday, saying officials would listen to citizens with legitimate concerns about livelihoods but would show no leniency toward those engaging in “rioting.”
The United Nations has voiced deep concern over the escalating situation. UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres expressed sadness over the reported deaths and injuries, emphasizing the need to prevent further casualties.
“All individuals must be allowed to protest peacefully and express their grievances,” Guterres’ spokesperson Stephane Dujarric told reporters, highlighting the international focus on Iran’s handling of dissent.
Analysts say the unrest reflects long-standing frustration with economic decline and government policies. The collapse of the rial, rising inflation, and growing unemployment have fueled widespread anger, with many blaming systemic corruption for the economic woes.
Despite the heavy security presence, protests continue across multiple cities, including Tehran, Mashhad, Isfahan, and Shiraz. Authorities have deployed police and paramilitary forces to quell demonstrations, often using force to disperse crowds.
Human rights organizations are calling for restraint from Iranian authorities and accountability for those responsible for the deaths. International observers warn that further escalation could result in more casualties and deepen the crisis.
With the protests entering their second week, Iran faces mounting pressure both domestically and internationally. Economic grievances, coupled with demands for political freedoms, are likely to continue shaping the unfolding crisis.
As Iran grapples with rising unrest, the world watches closely, urging dialogue and protection of human rights while condemning violent suppression of peaceful protests.
This article was created using automation technology and was thoroughly edited and fact-checked by one of our editorial staff members