At least 51 protesters have died in Iran amid nearly two weeks of widespread unrest, according to the Iran Human Rights Organization. This includes nine children among the casualties.
On Friday, the organization reported significant injuries, with hundreds affected during the first 13 days of protests driven by severe economic struggles. They are also working to confirm the ages of those under 18 who have died.
As high inflation and unemployment grip the nation, demonstrators have taken to the streets in all 31 provinces to voice their discontent with the government. Security forces have responded forcefully, reportedly resulting in additional fatalities and injuries. Former President Donald Trump has suggested maintaining pressure on Iran.
“We’ll be hitting them very hard where it hurts,” Trump mentioned during a White House press briefing. “And that doesn’t mean boots on the ground, but it means hitting them very, very hard where it hurts.”
Trump attributed the unrest to the Iranian leadership, claiming the regime has mistreated its citizens.
“They’ve done a bad job. They’ve treated the people very badly, and now they’re being paid back,” he remarked. “So let’s see what happens. We’ll watch it. We’re watching it very closely.”
On Thursday, the Iranian authorities limited internet and phone access, aiming to hinder organization and reporting of the protests.
With connectivity cut, the Iran Human Rights Organization expressed concern over possible escalations in violence, as reports indicated that security forces were using live ammunition against protestors. They warned that the risk of a higher death toll could increase after the internet was shut down.
“Over the past 13 days, the extent of the government’s use of force against protesters has been increasing, and the risk of intensified violence and the widespread killing of protesters after the internet shutdown is very serious,” said Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, the organization’s director. “The international community must act immediately to ensure people in Iran have access to a free internet, and countries that have diplomatic relations with Iran must send a clear message that the world will not tolerate the killing of protesters.”
Currently, the number of individuals detained in connection with the protests has surpassed 2,200.
