Deadly Crackdown on Protests in Iran Leaves Thousands Dead Amid Internet Blackout
Verified videos from Iran reveal a harrowing scene of violence, with bodies reportedly stacked in a hospital and armed snipers positioned in urban areas, as security forces intensify their crackdown on ongoing protests. The unrest, which erupted in late December, has escalated into one of the most severe governmental responses seen in recent times.
Why It Matters
The situation in Iran represents a critical human rights crisis. With thousands of lives lost and widespread unrest, the violent suppression of dissent raises significant concerns about state behavior and accountability. As global observers struggle to document the scale of the violence due to an imposed internet blackout, the true impact of the regime’s actions becomes increasingly obscured.
Key Developments
- Videos show bodies piled in Tehranpars hospital, with at least 31 confirmed dead in a single clip.
- CCTV cameras are being disabled by protesters in an attempt to evade surveillance.
- Reports indicate nearly 6,000 deaths, including over 5,600 protesters, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA).
- Authorities claim over 3,100 fatalities, primarily among security personnel and bystanders targeted by “rioters.”
- Starlink satellite internet access and VPNs have allowed some Iranians to bypass the blackout, raising hopes for the emergence of more evidence.
Full Report
Graphic Evidence of Violence
Recent footage analyzed by BBC Verify shows disturbing scenes from Tehranpars hospital, where multiple bodies were observed in the mortuary. Official sources have verified the location based on comparisons with publicly available footage. Additionally, clips depict seven body bags placed on the ground outside the hospital’s entrance.
Protests Amid Gunfire
Additional videos captured in west Tehran illustrate the chaos of protests, with gunfire erupting as masses of demonstrators chant. In Kerman, armed individuals in military uniforms were seen firing their weapons, though their targets remain unclear. A video from Mashhad confirmed the presence of snipers stationed on rooftops, further emphasizing the perilous environment for protesters.
State’s Communication Disruption
The Iranian government has enforced an almost-complete internet blackout since January 8, aiming to stifle communication and hinder the flow of information about the protests. Despite this, some individuals managed to access the internet, sparking hopes that more evidence of state violence may surface in the future.
Context & Previous Events
This wave of protests began in late December, ignited by calls for nationwide demonstrations from Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran’s former monarch. Organizations such as the Iran Human Rights (IHR) have predicted that the death toll could ultimately surpass 25,000, adding urgency to the international community’s response to the escalating crisis.
