New protests erupt in Iran despite internet blackout, with rights groups warning of a ‘massacre’ as unverified death tolls circulate
PARIS: Iranians staged fresh protests overnight despite a nationwide internet blackout, as rights groups warned authorities were committing a “massacre” to suppress the movement.
The demonstrations, now in their third week, have evolved from anger over living costs into a broad challenge to the theocratic regime.
Videos posted to social media showed large crowds and burning vehicles in Tehran and Mashhad, filtering out despite the communications shutdown.
The internet blackout has now lasted over 60 hours, according to monitor Netblocks, which called it a direct threat to public safety.
Several unverified videos allegedly showed relatives identifying protesters’ bodies in a Tehran morgue.
The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency confirmed 116 deaths linked to the protests, including 37 security personnel.
Activists warn the actual toll is likely far higher due to the information blackout.
The Center for Human Rights in Iran said it received reports “indicating that hundreds of protesters have been killed across Iran during the current internet shutdown”.
It added that hospitals were overwhelmed, blood supplies were low, and many protesters were deliberately shot in the eyes.
Interior Minister Eskandar Momeni told state TV that acts of “vandalism” were decreasing.
He warned that “those who lead the protest towards destruction, chaos and terrorist acts do not let the people’s voices be heard”.
Exiled royal Reza Pahlavi called for continued protests, stating, “Do not abandon the streets. My heart is with you.”
The mass rallies pose a significant challenge to 86-year-old Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei.
They follow a 12-day war with Israel in June, which was backed by the United States.
