Death toll rises to 5,002 in Iran protests
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- Human rights group Herana reports 5,002 killed in Iran protests, including 201 security personnel.
- Authorities have arrested 26,752 people amid nationwide unrest triggered by economic crisis.
The death toll from nationwide protests in Iran has reached 5,002, including 201 members of the security forces, according to the US-based human rights news agency Herana on Friday.
The agency reported that 26,752 people have been arrested during the demonstrations across the country.
Diverging official figures
Herana had reported Thursday that the death toll stood at 4,902, marking a rise of 100 deaths within 24 hours. Earlier data from Iran’s “Stop of Martyrs and Warriors” organization, based on forensic records, indicated 3,117 deaths, including 2,427 security personnel and civilians killed by armed groups.
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Most victims were reportedly civilians killed in attacks or targeted by armed elements during the protests.
Origins and scope of protests
The protests began in late December 2025 in Tehran, sparked by the collapse of the local currency and worsening economic conditions. They quickly spread to multiple cities and continued for more than two weeks.
Read more: Iran's Khamenei says Trump 'guilty for the casualties' in protests
International response
The United States and its ally 'Israel' have increased pressure on Tehran in response to the demonstrations, citing concerns over human rights abuses and the country’s economic mismanagement.
