Arabic version: إيران تطالب بالأدلة حول وفيات الاحتجاجات وسط صرخات دولية

The Iranian government has reiterated its accusation of ‘terrorists’ being responsible for the killings of thousands during last month’s nationwide protests. This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump and several human rights experts highlighted the severity of the situation. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi announced that the government has compiled a list of 3,117 individuals, whom he described as ‘victims of recent terrorist operations,’ which includes around 200 security personnel.

According to Al Jazeera, Araghchi challenged anyone who disputes the accuracy of their data to provide evidence. Previously, he claimed that 690 individuals on the list were ‘terrorists’ allegedly funded and armed by the U.S. and Israel. Trump’s recent statements claimed that 32,000 people were killed during the protests, asserting that the Iranian populace has endured severe hardship under the current regime.

Mai Sato, the United Nations special rapporteur on human rights in Iran, estimated that over 20,000 civilians may have died, though obtaining accurate information remains challenging due to the government’s heavy internet filtering. The U.S.-based HRANA reported more than 7,000 documented deaths and is investigating an additional 12,000 cases.

A coalition of 30 special rapporteurs and human rights experts called for Iranian authorities to reveal the fates of tens of thousands who have been arrested or are missing following the protests. They expressed concern over the vast discrepancy between official figures and grassroots estimates, which exacerbates the distress of families searching for their loved ones. The experts emphasized that most of those detained or killed were ordinary citizens, including children and professionals.

In the wake of the protests, Iranian state media has faced accusations of broadcasting forced confessions. Recent footage from the judiciary showcased men expressing regret over acts of vandalism during the unrest. Meanwhile, some students returned to university campuses amidst heightened security, with reports of clashes between students and paramilitary groups. Families have also held defiant memorials to honor those lost, juxtaposing their acts of remembrance against the government’s official mourning events.