Iranian state media reported on Wednesday that 3,117 people have died during ongoing protests that began in late December. The protests, according to activists, were met with a deadly crackdown by security forces.
The Foundation for Veterans and Martyrs of Iran, cited by state television, stated that 2,427 of the victims, including security personnel, are considered “martyrs” under Islamic law. The foundation referred to them as innocent victims.
Iranian authorities have condemned the demonstrations as “terrorist incidents”, describing them as violent “riots” allegedly fueled by the United States. In contrast, human rights groups claim that thousands of protesters demanding political reforms were killed by direct fire from security forces.
Widespread Property Damage in Tehran
During the protests, hundreds of buildings were burned, including 314 government buildings and 155 additional structures, according to Tehran municipal officials. Banks, shops, mosques, and private properties were also heavily damaged.
Journalists touring Tehran reported charred buses at a municipal depot. Iraj Lotfizadeh, head of bus operations, stated that 22 buses were completely destroyed on January 8 when protests intensified, with additional vehicles damaged the following day.
Nearby, parts of a mosque were blackened, and doors were damaged. Torn banners with Quranic verses and prayers were strewn on the floor alongside burnt motorcycles, highlighting the scale of destruction across the city.