Deaths in Iran’s Crackdown on Protests Reach at Least 7,000, Activists Say

Activists say the death toll from a government crackdown on widespread protests in has now reached at least 7,000 people killed, with many more feared dead as clashes between security forces and demonstrators continue.

The figures come from the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), which relies on networks inside Iran to document deaths, although exact numbers remain difficult to verify due to internet shutdowns and information blackouts imposed by authorities.

Widespread Unrest and Government Response

The protests, which began in late 2025 and have spread nationwide, reflect deep dissatisfaction with the government and economic conditions. Security forces have responded with force, leading to deadly confrontations in multiple cities. The Iranian government’s own official toll reported lower figures, highlighting the stark contrast between state accounts and independent activist estimates.

Challenges in Confirming Casualties

Independent verification has been hampered by restricted communications, with authorities limiting internet and phone access. HRANA’s reported figures are based on cross-checked local reports, but analysts warn that the actual number of deaths could be significantly higher.

Broader Human Rights Concerns

The crackdown has drawn international concern, with observers citing not only deaths but also mass arrests and reports of abuses against detainees. Families of victims and rights groups have condemned the government’s use of lethal force and called for transparent investigations.

The Bottom Line

With activists reporting upwards of 7,000 deaths in the ongoing protests, Iran faces mounting domestic and international pressure to address both the violent suppression of dissent and the lack of transparent information. The situation remains volatile as authorities continue to confront demonstrators and restrict independent reporting.