UN Rights Chief Condemns Escalating Violence Against Protesters in Iran
Call for Immediate Action
The United Nations human rights chief expressed deep alarm on Tuesday over growing violence by Iranian security forces against anti-government demonstrators.
Volker Turk urged Iranian authorities to “immediately stop all forms of violence and repression against peaceful protesters, restore full internet and telecommunications access, and ensure accountability for serious human rights violations.”
Concerns Over Killings and Crackdowns
Turk emphasized that the killing of peaceful demonstrators must end. He criticized attempts to label protesters as “terrorists” to justify the use of force. “This cycle of horrific violence cannot continue,” he said.
Reflecting on earlier nationwide protests, Turk said broad segments of the Iranian population have repeatedly taken to the streets to demand fundamental changes in governance. “Once again, the authorities are responding with brutal force to suppress legitimate calls for change,” he added.
Humanitarian Impact and Restrictions
According to Turk, several hospitals are overwhelmed with casualties, including children. Nationwide internet and telecommunications shutdowns have made verification of events difficult. Reports indicate that some members of security forces have also been killed.
“The Iranian people have the right to protest peacefully. Their grievances must be heard and addressed, not used as a political tool,” Turk said. He called for all killings and abuses to be investigated under international human rights standards, with those responsible held accountable.
Widespread Protests and Casualties
Anti-government protests have swept Iran since last month, fueled by severe economic deterioration and the collapse of the national currency. Authorities have accused foreign powers, including the US and Israel, of supporting what they call “armed rioters.”
While official casualty figures have not been released, the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) estimates at least 646 people have died, including both protesters and security forces, with over 1,000 injured. HRANA also reports that at least 10,721 people have been detained in 585 locations across 187 cities in all 31 provinces.
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