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Iran Admits Nearly 2,000 Deaths in Protests

Published January 13, 2026, 12:19
Iran Admits Nearly 2,000 Deaths in Protests

The Iranian government has, for the first time, acknowledged that approximately 2,000 people have died in the recent protests sweeping the country. According to an Iranian official, the fatalities include members of the security forces, with "terrorists" being blamed for deaths on both sides. The unrest was triggered by economic hardship and represents the biggest internal challenge to Iranian authorities in three years, amid increasing international pressure. The Iranian authorities are employing a dual approach, acknowledging economic grievances while violently suppressing protests. They repeatedly accuse the US and Israel of inciting the unrest and claim that "terrorists" have infiltrated the demonstrations. The flow of information is hampered by communication restrictions, including internet shutdowns. A human rights organization had previously reported hundreds of deaths and thousands of arrests. Videos from clashes between protesters and security forces confirm the use of firearms and property damage. The exact number of casualties and their breakdown between protesters and security forces remain unclear, as authorities have not provided detailed information. The situation remains tense, and the potential for further violence is real.