Human Rights Activists in Iran: 614 protest rallies recorded in 187 cities

Iran’s nationwide protests entered their seventeenth day on January 13, with a continued internet blackout limiting independent verification of events. 

Human Rights Activists in Iran HRAI reported 614 demonstrations across 187 cities, spanning all 31 provinces.

Authorities have arrested at least 18,434 people, and 1,134 protesters have been seriously injured. Confirmed deaths include 2,403 protesters, 12 children, nine non-protesting civilians, and 147 government-aligned personnel. HRAI is investigating 779 additional possible fatalities.

The ongoing communications shutdown has drawn international concern. UN Secretary-General António Guterres urged Iranian authorities to exercise restraint, while EU officials condemned violent repression and called for the release of detainees and restoration of internet access.

Several countries, including Canada, advised their citizens to leave Iran, and some diplomatic missions reduced staff.

HRAI condemned the use of lethal force and stressed that the blackout hinders independent monitoring and accountability.

By Aghakazim Guliyev