Death toll in Iran unrest rises to 45

The death toll from intense anti-government protests and clashes with law enforcement agencies in Iran has risen to 45, with at least eight minors among the dead.

In a statement on Thursday, January 8, Norway-based human rights organisation Iran Human Rights said Wednesday was the bloodiest day of the ongoing movement, with at least 13 people killed across the country in a single day.

According to the organisation, more than a hundred people have been injured in the clashes. Security forces have also arrested over 2,000 protesters so far. The unrest has spread to nearly all cities and towns across Iran’s 31 provinces, bringing normal public life to a virtual standstill.

Analysts say Iran’s fragile economy and sharp currency devaluation are the main drivers of the unprecedented protests. Prolonged depreciation of the rial and runaway inflation have made the cost of living unbearable for ordinary citizens.

The protests began on December 28, when wholesale and retail traders in the capital Tehran first called a strike. Within a short time, it escalated into a nationwide anti-government movement. Protesters are now demanding not only economic reforms but also fundamental changes to the ruling Islamist government.

The authorities have taken a hardline approach to control the situation. Additional security forces have been deployed in the capital and major cities, while internet and mobile networks have been shut down nationwide.

Despite restrictions on the flow of information, the protests have not subsided. In fact, demonstrations have intensified in several areas, with incidents of arson reported at buildings of the state television network.

Meanwhile, Iran’s exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi has been issuing guidance to protesters, further politicising the movement. According to international media, the Iranian government is under severe pressure as it struggles to contain the unprecedented public anger.

The ongoing unrest is also creating fresh concerns in Middle Eastern geopolitics. Iran Human Rights and AFP have said the actual death toll may be higher than official figures.