Amnesty challenges protest toll
Iran’s security forces may have killed more than 100 protesters as part of a brutal crackdown on demonstrations that is being carried out amid a nationwide internet shutdown, Amnesty International says.
The government has acknowledged five deaths, including four members of the security forces, and has blamed the protests on foreign enemies and saboteurs.
If confirmed, the higher death toll would signal a much wider scale of unrest, taking place under a near-total information blackout.
Amnesty said yesterday at least 106 demonstrators had been killed in 21 cities since the protests began last weekend, citing what it said was verified video footage and credible witness testimony.
Security forces have used firearms, water cannon and tear gas to disperse protests, according to the report, which also cited the use of live ammunition.
A blanket restriction on internet access since Monday has stymied the ability of protesters to share images and information on social media.
The United Nations yesterday also condemned the use of live ammunition by security forces.
Iranian state media published images of burned-out buildings, charred vehicles and shattered storefronts in cities such as Isfahan, Shiraz and Tabriz.
The demonstrations began after a government decree to cut fuel subsidies and ration supplies, as officials seek ways to boost revenue. US sanctions targeting the Iranian economy, including oil exports, have deprived the government of a critical source of income. as growth wanes and prices rise.
In recent days, protesters have ransacked and burned petrol stations, banks and government buildings in major cities. State media reported that at least 1000 people had been detained.