MSN – The death toll has rapidly increased as Iranian authorities violently suppressed large-scale anti-government protests. The Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), a U.S.-based human rights organization, reported on the 10th (local time) that 116 deaths had been confirmed in Iran. This figure nearly doubled from the 65 deaths confirmed as of the previous day.
HRANA stated, “Most victims were killed at close range by live ammunition or rubber bullets.” There appears to be a significant possibility that Iranian authorities engaged in aimed fire against protesters. Among the 116 fatalities, seven were minors under the age of 18. Four victims, including medical personnel, were not participants in the protests, while 37 were affiliated with the military or judiciary, according to HRANA.
Protests erupted in 185 cities across Iran’s 31 provinces, with 574 protest sites documented. As demonstrations spread nationwide, Iranian authorities have blocked international calls and internet access while focusing on suppression efforts. HRANA noted, “Rather than subsiding, the protests are facing severe restrictions on information access,” adding, “Reports indicate that protesters continue to take to the streets despite heightened security measures.”
In the capital, Tehran, the protests have taken the form of smaller, sporadic gatherings due to the harsh crackdown. HRANA observed that despite the deployment of military forces across the city, ongoing protests suggest that public grievances remain unresolved.
Iranian authorities, who have labeled protesters as “rioters” and “terrorists” while threatening them with execution, are reportedly using surveillance drones to monitor demonstrations.