Iran Declares Control Amidst Deadly Protests and Global Outcry

UPDATE: Iranian authorities claim they have regained control over the ongoing protests, despite a brutal crackdown resulting in a staggering death toll. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced on December 3, 2023, that the regime’s efforts have brought the uprising “under total control,” even as reports indicate that up to 496 protesters have been killed by security forces.

The situation remains critical, with international condemnation intensifying. The United Nations Secretary-General has urged Iranian officials to exercise restraint and respect human rights. Amidst this turmoil, the Iranian government is actively working to control the narrative by blaming external forces and framing the protests as a battle against “terrorists.”

“The regime has downplayed the violence and casualties,” said Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, a human rights director, who has called for immediate global intervention to stop the violence.

Reports confirm that approximately 10,600 people have been arrested in just two weeks, as hospitals across Iran struggle to cope with the overwhelming number of casualties. While the regime claims 121 security officers have been killed, they have not disclosed the true number of civilian deaths, raising concerns about transparency and accountability.

Protests erupted in Tehran‘s Grand Bazaar late last year over failing economic policies and have rapidly escalated into widespread anti-government demonstrations. Videos circulating on social media show horrific scenes of violence, including large numbers of bodies and casualties, further amplifying fears about the state of human rights in Iran.

Araghchi’s statements come amidst a government crackdown that has seen extreme measures employed to suppress dissent. He summoned foreign diplomats in Tehran, demanding that their governments withdraw any public support for the protests, labeling such actions as “unacceptable interventions.”

The regime alleges that some protesters are legitimate civilians while others are “violent agitators” incited by foreign powers. Araghchi declared that security forces would “hunt down” these instigators. The Iranian government continues to promote a narrative that blames the United States and Israel for the unrest, claiming they are behind the protests.

As the situation develops, the international community is watching closely. UN Secretary-General António Guterres expressed shock at the reports of excessive force used against protesters, calling for an end to the communications blackout and urging respect for human rights.

The protests show no signs of abating, with casualties and arrests continuing to rise. The next steps for the Iranian regime remain unpredictable as they face mounting pressure both internally and from the global community.

Authorities have intensified their crackdown, framing their actions as a “war against terrorists,” while warning against any foreign intervention. The world is now keenly observing how these events unfold and what the implications will be for the future of Iran.