Authorities in Iran have acknowledged that over 2,000 individuals have lost their lives during the ongoing protests in the country. The death toll surged significantly, with reports indicating instances of summary executions, shootings by troops, and individuals being fatally beaten with police rifle butts.
According to state TV, Iranian security forces apprehended armed groups with explosives believed to be connected to Israel in Zahedan. Following a communication blackout imposed by authorities during the nationwide protests, Iranians were able to make international calls again today.
Recent reports revealed that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps had discreetly introduced Iraqi militia into Iran to reinforce the crackdown on the protests. While officials mentioned the involvement of individuals linked to Israel, they have not presented concrete evidence.
Approximately 1,000 Iraqi Popular Mobilisation Units loyal to the Iranian regime were reportedly smuggled into the country to assist in suppressing the protests alongside the police and the IRGC. The death toll includes more than 100 security personnel.
A tragic incident involved a young boy named Amir, who was shot and beaten with rifle butts by the police. Witnesses described a heavy security presence in Tehran, with damaged government buildings, vandalized ATMs, and limited pedestrian activity. Despite the unrest, local business owners were instructed by the police to resume operations.
Concerns among residents are escalating, particularly regarding the potential for strikes following remarks by U.S. President Donald Trump hinting at military action. The atmosphere in Tehran reflects a mix of hopelessness among the youth and a determination to continue protesting.
Witnesses observed anti-riot police officers equipped with various weapons patrolling major intersections, alongside members of the Basij force from the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps. Security officials in plain clothes were also visible in public areas.
During the unrest, several banks and government offices were set ablaze, causing disruptions in financial transactions due to internet outages. Despite the challenges, shops remained open in Tehran, albeit with minimal customer traffic. The reopening of Tehran’s Grand Bazaar was anticipated for the following day.
Witnesses recounted instances where security forces compelled shop owners to resume business operations, highlighting the fear of reprisal among the locals. Furthermore, reports emerged of security personnel searching for satellite terminals in apartment buildings in northern Tehran.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei commended the massive turnout in pro-government demonstrations across the country, cautioning against perceived foreign interference. State TV coverage showcased chants denouncing America and Israel, with severe consequences warned for individuals involved in the protests.
Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi confirmed ongoing communication with U.S. envoy Steve Witkoff, albeit acknowledging discord in proposed ideas and threats from Washington. President Trump’s imposition of tariffs on countries engaging with Iran was seen as a response to the recent events, reflecting his stance on leveraging economic measures for geopolitical influence.