Iran protests leave over three thousand dead

Tehran (Web Desk): A total of 3,117 people were killed during nationwide protests in Iran, according to reports. AFP said the protests began in late December and were brought under control by security forces, according to authorities.

Iranian state television, citing a statement from the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs, said that 2,427 of those killed were declared “martyrs” under Islamic laws, including a large number of security personnel. The statement described them as “innocent.”

Between the Lines from Mossadegh to Today’s Protests: Iran, Regime Change, and Lessons from History

Iran’s religious leadership has termed the protests “terrorist acts” and violent riots, alleging that they were supported by the United States.

Meanwhile, human rights organizations claim that thousands of ordinary civilians demanding political and social change were killed by direct firing from security forces. Rights groups say the actual death toll may be far higher than official figures.