Death Toll in Iran Protests Climbs to at Least 192

At least 192 people have been killed during ongoing anti‑government protests in Iran, according to a human rights organisation, as concerns grow over an escalating crackdown by security forces.

The protests began over rising living costs but have since expanded into a wider movement against Iran’s theocratic system, marking the largest unrest the country has seen in more than three years. Demonstrations have continued for over two weeks despite a nationwide internet shutdown that has lasted more than 60 hours, severely restricting communication.

Norway‑based Iran Human Rights said it had confirmed the deaths of at least 192 protesters, warning that the real number could be significantly higher due to limited access to information. Activists say the internet blackout has made it difficult to document casualties and abuses.

Large crowds have been reported on the streets of Tehran, Mashhad, and several other cities, with vehicles set ablaze and clashes taking place during nighttime protests. Some unverified videos circulating online appear to show families identifying bodies of victims at morgues in the capital.

The US‑based Center for Human Rights in Iran stated it had received eyewitness accounts suggesting that hundreds may have been killed during the current crackdown. The group warned that hospitals are overwhelmed, blood supplies are dwindling, and some protesters have been deliberately shot in the eyes.

Another monitoring group, the Human Rights Activists News Agency, reported 116 confirmed deaths, including members of the security forces. Iranian state media has broadcast funerals for security personnel, while authorities have described the protests as “riots” and acts of vandalism.

Iran’s national police chief said “significant arrests” were made overnight, though no figures were provided. Senior officials acknowledged public frustration over economic hardship but accused protesters of using violent tactics similar to those of extremist groups.

President Masoud Pezeshkian urged citizens not to allow unrest to disrupt society, saying the government seeks to uphold justice.

Meanwhile, Tehran has seen widespread disruption, with many businesses closing early as security forces deploy in large numbers. Food prices, including meat, have reportedly surged since the unrest began.

Exiled opposition figure Reza Pahlavi called on protesters to continue demonstrations, expressing solidarity with those on the streets. International reactions have intensified, with US President Donald Trump voicing support for protesters and warning Iranian authorities against further killings.

Israel’s foreign minister urged the European Union to label Iran’s Revolutionary Guard Corps a terrorist organisation, citing violence against civilians. In response, Iran’s parliament speaker warned that any US military action would trigger retaliation against American and Israeli targets.