Over 2,000 Killed in Iran Protest Crackdown as Global Pressure Mounts

Iran has witnessed one of the deadliest crackdowns in its recent history, with human rights groups reporting that more than 2,000 people have been killed during nationwide protests over the past 17 days, BBC reported. 

The US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) said it has confirmed at least 2,003 deaths so far, including protesters, government-affiliated individuals, civilians and children, despite a near-total internet blackout. The group added that hundreds more deaths are still under review. A Norwegian-based rights group, Iran Human Rights, has separately verified at least 734 protester deaths, warning the real toll is likely far higher.

An Iranian official also told Reuters that around 2,000 people had been killed, but blamed “terrorists” for the violence. Iranian authorities have repeatedly accused foreign-backed groups of infiltrating the protests.

The unrest, which has spread to around 180 cities across all 31 provinces, began over economic grievances, including currency collapse and rising living costs, but has since evolved into widespread calls for political change. Security forces responded with lethal force, while communication services were largely shut down, making independent verification difficult.

US President Donald Trump has strongly condemned the crackdown, warning Tehran it would “pay a big price” for the killings and urging Iranians to continue protesting. He said the US is seeking accurate casualty figures and would “act accordingly” once confirmed. Trump has also cancelled engagements with Iranian officials and announced punitive trade measures, including tariffs on countries trading with Iran, while signalling that military and covert options are under consideration.

Meanwhile, international concern is growing. The UN human rights chief has urged Iran to immediately halt violence against peaceful protesters and restore internet access, warning against the use of terrorism labels to justify repression. The UK has summoned Iran’s ambassador in protest over what it described as brutal killings.

Reports from inside Iran suggest hospitals are overwhelmed, mortuaries are filled beyond capacity, and mass arrests are continuing. HRANA estimates more than 16,700 people have been detained so far, with some protesters facing fast-track trials and even the death penalty.

As protests continue despite the crackdown, analysts say the unrest represents one of the most serious challenges to Iran’s ruling establishment since the 1979 Islamic Revolution.