Iran Official Confirms 2,000 Deaths in Ongoing Protests
An Iranian official revealed a grim toll on Tuesday. Around 2,000 people have been killed during the ongoing protests in Iran. This figure includes members of the security forces. The official spoke to Reuters news agency.
Official Blames Armed Groups for Violence
The official did not provide a detailed breakdown of civilian and security force casualties. However, the high number reflects the intensity of unrest sweeping across several parts of the country. Authorities blamed what they described as "terrorists" for the deaths of civilians and security personnel.
The Iranian official said those killed included civilians as well as members of the security agencies. He accused armed groups and hostile actors of being responsible for much of the violence.
Protests Pose Major Challenge to Leadership
The comments mark one of the highest publicly acknowledged figures by an Iranian official since the protests began. The demonstrations are now in their third week. They have posed one of the most sustained domestic challenges to Iran's leadership in recent years.
Iranian authorities have repeatedly said the protests initially erupted over economic instability. Rising cost of living and social and political grievances also fueled the unrest. Officials claim the protests were later infiltrated by armed groups and foreign-backed elements.
Authorities have consistently rejected characterisations of the unrest as peaceful. They say security forces were responding to violent actions. The government's response has included heavy security deployments, numerous arrests, and severe internet restrictions.
Independent Verification Remains Difficult
Independent verification of casualty figures has been extremely difficult. Tight controls on information and limited access for international media and rights groups create major obstacles. International human rights groups have accused Iranian authorities of using excessive force against demonstrators.
Tehran has denied these allegations. Iran has instead blamed Western governments and regional rivals for fuelling the protests. The United States and Israel have been singled out in particular.
International Calls for Restraint Dismissed
Calls from international bodies for restraint and independent investigations into the deaths have been dismissed by Tehran. Iranian officials characterize these appeals as interference in internal affairs.
Meanwhile, US President Donald Trump has threatened strikes on Iran. He warned of military action if the Islamic Republic continues its crackdown on protesters. The situation remains tense as protests enter their third week with no clear resolution in sight.
