Anti-government protests persist in Iran | Key developments so far
In recent times, protesters have hit roads in several parts of the country, expressing anger over rising inflation, sip in the economy, and the country's currency increasing to a record high against the US dollar
Tehran: As the protests across Iran continue to surge, the regime has claimed that nearly 2,000 people have lost their lives in the ongoing stir. The Iranian government has also blamed ‘terrorists’ for recent violence in the country.
Protesters hit roads in Iran in recent times
In recent times, protesters have hit roads in several parts of the country, expressing anger over rising inflation, sip in the economy, and the country’s currency increasing to a record high against the US dollar. Iran has also blamed the US and Israel for supporting these protests.
The latest figures by Iran Government have been contradicted by Iran International, a website linked to the Opposition, has claimed that over 12,000 people have lost their lives in protests across the country so far. The figure is wave above other groups, which have reported death tolls so far of hundreds.
The report added that the murders were carried out by the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and Basij forces. Most murders took place on the nights of January 8 and January 9. The report said that violence was sporadic and planned and did not occur suddenly. It further claimed that violence was conducted on the orders of Ali Khamenei and that senior Iranian officials had knowledge about the violence.
US puts its weight behind protesters
Meanwhile, amid protests, the US has already put its weight behind the protesters. US President Donald Trump has said that his country’s forces are ready to strike Iran; however, his administration would prefer the diplomatic route first.
Iran on Tuesday claimed that it has seized US-made weapons from militants, who reportedly hid arms and ammunition across the country. Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi. While speaking to Al Jazeera said that the internet was cut after the Iranian troops confronted terrorists and found that orders were given to them from abroad.
Trump threatens countries engaging with Tehran with Tariffs
On Monday, Trump also threatened countries engaging with Iran in trade with a 25 percent tariff. He had announced the decision in a social media post and said that it was "final and conclusive.