Iranian-Canadians gather outside the Vancouver Art Gallery on Saturday, Jan. 10.
Iran reports 109 security deaths as nationwide protests enter 15th day
Note: AI technology was used to generate this article’s audio.
- Iranian authorities report 109 security personnel killed amid nationwide protests.
- Internet blackout continues, limiting access to information and coordination.
Iran faces escalating unrest as authorities report 109 security and police personnel killed amid protests over living conditions, while internet access remains severely restricted across the country.
Rising Toll Among Security Forces
The Iranian news agency Tasnim reported that 109 members of the security and police forces were killed “in riots across several regions in recent days”. State television previously confirmed 30 deaths in Isfahan province and eight more during unrest on Thursday and Friday, according to the commander of Iran’s special police forces. In Lorestan province, police said around 100 individuals suspected of inciting unrest were arrested.
Read more: Iran hit by nationwide internet blackout amid widespread protests
The Iranian Red Crescent also confirmed one of its members was killed during an attack on relief facilities in the northern city of Gorgan. Interior Minister Ahmad Vahidi stated that “the unrest is gradually declining,” though protests continue in multiple cities including Tehran, Isfahan, Mashhad, Kermanshah, Arak, and Babel.
Civilian Impact and Casualties
A judicial official reported Saturday that six security personnel were killed and 120 injured during clashes in Fars province. Authorities accused “individuals linked to foreign enemies” of exploiting legitimate public grievances to undermine security and stability.
Read more: New clashes in Iran as protests enter second week: rights groups
Meanwhile, the Revolutionary Guard alleged that “terrorists” targeted military and security sites over the past two nights, causing deaths among civilians and security personnel and property damage.
Internet Blackout Continues
Non-governmental organizations report significant civilian impact. US-based Human Rights Activists News agency stated the death toll among protesters has exceeded 116, with more than 2,600 arrests.
The NGO NetBlocks confirmed that Iran’s internet blackout, imposed Thursday, remains in effect, leaving millions without online access for over 60 hours. NetBlocks warned that the restrictions “pose a direct threat to Iranians’ safety and quality of life at a critical moment for the country’s future”.
Read more: Iran's Khamenei slams “vandals” after protests
Protests, driven by economic hardship and anti-government sentiment, show no signs of fully abating despite government claims of a decline in unrest. Activists continue to post videos from neighborhoods and major cities showing large gatherings and chants against the authorities.
