Daijiworld Media Network - Tehran
Tehran, Jan 22: Iran on Wednesday released its first official death toll following a nationwide crackdown on protests, offering figures far lower than those cited by activists abroad, as the country’s leadership seeks to reassert control after weeks of unrest reminiscent of the turmoil surrounding the 1979 Islamic Revolution.
State television aired statements from the Interior Ministry and the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, saying 3,117 people were killed during the protests that began on December 28. Officials claimed that 2,427 of the dead were civilians and security personnel, without providing details on the remaining casualties. Iran’s government has previously been accused of undercounting or withholding fatality figures during periods of unrest.
However, a leading human rights group said the death toll had reached at least 4,902, with many more feared dead. The organisation, which relies on a network of activists inside Iran, has historically been regarded as reliable in documenting protest-related deaths. Other rights groups have also reported significantly higher figures than those acknowledged by Tehran.
The Associated Press said it could not independently verify the casualty numbers due to restrictions imposed by Iranian authorities, including internet shutdowns, blocked international calls, and limits on journalists’ movements. Iranian state media has repeatedly described protesters as “rioters” allegedly backed by the United States and Israel, though no evidence has been provided to support the claims.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi issued his strongest warning yet to Washington, saying the Islamic Republic would respond forcefully if it came under renewed attack.
“We will be firing back with everything we have,” he warned.
His remarks came as Iran faced growing international isolation, with Araghchi’s invitation to the World Economic Forum in Davos reportedly rescinded over the killings. The developments also coincided with heightened military activity, including the movement of a US aircraft carrier group toward the Middle East and reports of increased deployment of US fighter jets and equipment in the region.
The situation has further raised fears of escalating regional tensions amid Iran’s internal unrest and strained relations with Western powers.