Nearly 6,000 people have been killed in Iran's popular uprising

The death toll in Iran has reportedly surpassed 6,000 as security forces continue their crackdown on nationwide anti-government protests.

According to the US-based human rights organisation, Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), which was cited by AFP on Monday, 26 January, at least 5,848 deaths have been confirmed so far. This figure includes 209 members of the security forces. However, authorities and independent observers warn that the actual number could be far higher, with investigations ongoing into an additional 17,091 possible fatalities.

The unrest began in late December last year, initially sparked by economic grievances, but it swiftly escalated into one of the largest popular uprisings against Iran’s current Islamic regime. The situation deteriorated markedly after 8 January, when protests spiralled out of governmental control and spread across the country. International human rights organisations allege that the Iranian authorities have carried out unprecedented violent measures, including firing live ammunition directly at demonstrators.

Compounding the crisis, Iran has imposed an 18-day nationwide internet shutdown, described by NetBlocks as an unparalleled “internet blackout,” severely restricting access to independent reporting and communications.

Meanwhile, the conflict has drawn international attention, becoming a focal point of tension between Washington and Tehran. Former US President Donald Trump, initially hesitant about direct military intervention, has recently issued stern warnings, announcing the deployment of a substantial US naval fleet to the region. In response, Iran’s Foreign Ministry has stated unequivocally that it is prepared to deliver a “crushing response” to any foreign aggression, warning the US against interfering in Iran’s domestic affairs.

Accurate casualty figures remain difficult to verify due to restricted access. According to HRANA, at least 41,283 people have been arrested for participating in the protests. By contrast, the Iranian government’s official account, published last week, claimed 3,117 deaths, asserting that most fatalities were either security personnel or civilians caught in clashes with rioters. Far more alarming figures have been reported by Farsi-language outlets abroad, such as Iran International, which allege that over 36,500 people were killed during 8–9 January alone, though these claims could not be independently verified by AFP.

The ongoing internet shutdown has left the full scale of the deadly crackdown largely obscured from the global community, making the humanitarian situation increasingly opaque.

Table: Reported Casualties in Iran Protests