Iran protests over economic crisis and government crackdown

Al Jazeera
Al Jazeera
3h ago
Iranian authorities reported dozens to more than 100 security personnel killed during nationwide protests over the economic crisis as the government intensified its crackdown and issued warnings to the United States and Israel.
Iran protests over economic crisis and government crackdown
A What happened
Iran’s state media reported security force deaths during protests against an economic crisis, including 30 police and security forces members killed in Isfahan province and eight security forces members killed during operations in various cities. Tasnim reported 109 security personnel killed nationwide, and the Iranian Red Crescent said a staff member died during an attack on a relief building in Gorgan. The Ministry of Interior said the “riots” were gradually subsiding, and the attorney general warned participants could face the death penalty. Iran Human Rights said at least 51 protesters, including nine children, were killed by security forces and hundreds were injured.

Key insights

  • 1

    Iranian officials threatened retaliation if Iran is attacked: Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf said Israel, US bases, and US ships would be legitimate targets in the case of an attack on Iran.

  • 2

    Authorities signaled harsher enforcement against unrest: Iran’s police chief said the level of confrontation with rioters had been stepped up, and the attorney general warned that those involved could face the death penalty.

  • 3

    Internet shutdown was described as a safety risk: Netblocks said the censorship measure presented a direct threat to the safety and wellbeing of Iranians.

Takeaways

Protests over Iran’s economic crisis continued under an intensified crackdown, with reported deaths among security forces and protesters, an extended internet shutdown, and escalating rhetoric between Iranian officials and the US.

Topics

World & Politics International Affairs Conflicts Security & Defense Human Rights Law & Public Safety Public Safety

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