Category: Freedom of Expression

Special Session of the UN Human Rights Council on Iran: Condemnation of the January Crackdown and Extension of the Fact-Finding Mission

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Freedom of Expression, News
HRANA, iran protests, January Crackdown, Payam Akhavan, UN Human Rights Council

HRANA – A special session of the United Nations Human Rights Council was held on January 23, 2026  at the UN’s European headquarters in Geneva. The session was specifically dedicated to examining the human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran and the widespread suppression of the nationwide January protests. During the meeting, a proposed resolution was adopted with 25 votes in favor. With the adoption of this resolution, the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran was extended for one year, and the mandate of the UN fact-finding mission on Iran was extended for two years. This session marked the third special session of the Human Rights Council on Iran in the past three years and was convened at the request of civil society organizations and with the support of 23 member states of the Council.

According to HRANA, at the outset of the session, senior UN human rights officials, referring to the scope of the recent protests and the Iranian government’s response, expressed deep concern over the “unprecedented scale” of the violent crackdown on peaceful protesters. In statements and speeches delivered during the session, numerous reports of extrajudicial killings, the lethal and disproportionate use of force, mass arrests, and nationwide internet shutdowns were highlighted as serious examples of human rights violations.

Special Rapporteur: Iranian authorities’ language justifies violence

Mai Sato, the UN Special Rapporteur on the situation of human rights in Iran, warned in her remarks that the use of terms such as “terrorist,” “rioter,” and “mercenary” by Iranian authorities to describe peaceful protesters effectively serves to justify violent crackdowns and to disregard the popular and nationwide nature of these protests. She emphasized that the use of lethal force must only ever be a last resort to protect life and must comply with the principles of necessity, proportionality, and legality, principles which, she said, were widely violated during the January crackdown.

Sato further stated that even the issuance of death sentences against protesters, regardless of whether they are carried out, constitutes an unlawful act aimed at intimidating and silencing dissent, and represents a clear violation of the rights to life, freedom of expression, and freedom of assembly.

“Deadliest crackdown” from the perspective of the Fact-Finding Mission

Sara Hossain, Chair of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, said in a video message to the Geneva session that what has occurred in Iran in recent weeks was most likely “the deadliest crackdown against the Iranian people since the 1979 revolution.” She reported that testimonies and evidence have been collected regarding the disproportionate use of force, arbitrary killings, torture, sexual violence, mass arrests, and forced confessions, stressing that the mission’s investigations are ongoing.

In the same context, Payam Akhavan, former prosecutor of the UN war crimes tribunals, described recent events as “unprecedented bloodshed.” He spoke of cases in which families were reportedly forced to pay money to receive the bodies of victims, and even reports of individuals being found alive among the corpses.

Positions of countries: from explicit condemnation to calls against politicization

During the session, representatives of various countries presented differing views. European countries, including France, Estonia, Albania, and Bulgaria, condemned the use of lethal weapons, mass arrests, and the killing of protesters, including children, and called for the adoption of the resolution, accountability for perpetrators of human rights violations, and the extension of the fact-finding mission’s mandate. The representative of the European Union also expressed solidarity with the Iranian people and emphasized the need to end the violence and lift internet shutdowns.

By contrast, some countries, including Egypt and Iraq, called for avoiding the “politicization” of the Human Rights Council and emphasized dialogue between governments. Pakistan’s representative, while expressing concern over developments in Iran, warned that sanctions could worsen the human rights situation and said that the “chance for diplomacy” should not be lost.

Response of the Islamic Republic of Iran

In his remarks, the Permanent Representative of the Islamic Republic of Iran in Geneva described the January protests as having “entered a second phase of organized violence” and claimed that a large portion of those killed were victims of “terrorist acts.” He rejected the figures presented by international bodies and accused the organizers of the session of ignoring the human rights of the Iranian people.

Final resolution: condemnation, demands, and extension of mandates

At the conclusion of the session, the United Nations Human Rights Council, with 25 votes in favor, condemned the human rights situation in the Islamic Republic of Iran and called on the Iranian government to take all necessary measures to stop and prevent extrajudicial killings, arbitrary deprivation of life, enforced disappearances, torture, sexual violence, and arbitrary arrests, particularly against peaceful protesters. The Council also called for the immediate and full restoration of internet access across the country.

At the same time, by a majority vote of its members, the mandate of the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran was extended for one year, and the mandate of the Independent International Fact-Finding Mission on Iran, given the crackdown on the January protests, was extended for a further two years. Many human rights organizations have viewed this decision as a key step toward documenting violations and pursuing accountability for perpetrators in the future.

The Geneva session concluded amid remarks by multiple speakers noting that many families of victims and of those killed or detained during the protests in Iran are closely watching for concrete outcomes from these decisions and the continued work of international human rights mechanisms.

Letter from the Human Rights Activists to the Human Rights Council on the twenty-sixth day of the protests

Earlier, on the twenty-sixth day of the nationwide protests, the Human Rights Activists in Iran published a letter addressed to the UN Human Rights Council, seeking to draw the attention of member states to the “documented and alarming patterns of repression” in Iran. The letter was released ahead of the Council’s special session on Iran and aimed to provide concise, documented, and up-to-date information to inform the Council’s decision-making.

The Human Rights Activists emphasized that their findings were based on verified HRANA reports and documentation of individual cases, noting that the figures presented represent absolute minimums. They warned that widespread internet shutdowns and severe restrictions on the free flow of information mean the true scale of the crackdown and the number of victims are likely far greater than what current data reflect.

The central focus of the letter was the widespread use of lethal force against unarmed protesters. It cited direct shootings of protesters, deaths of citizens in the streets, and the transfer of the injured to medical centers, describing this pattern as a serious and systematic violation of the right to life. At the same time, it warned about mass arrests and the unknown fate of thousands of detainees.

The letter also addressed the issue of forced confessions, describing their broadcast by state media as a violation of fair trial standards and human dignity. Such practices, it stated, not only place additional psychological pressure on detainees but also serve as a tool to legitimize repression.

Finally, the Human Rights Activists in Iran stressed the necessity of continuing independent investigations and ensuring international accountability, calling on member states of the Human Rights Council to respond effectively to the human rights situation in Iran on the basis of existing documentation and to prevent impunity for perpetrators of these violations.

At least 759 Citizens Arrested or Summoned Nationwide

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Freedom of Expression, News, Other
Abdolreza Ghandehari, irgc, Mohsen Baveri

HRANA – During the nationwide protests, at least 22 citizens were arrested in the cities of Kerman, Tehran, Semnan, and Lumar in Ilam Province. Additionally, a video containing forced confessions from five of these citizens has been released, though it is unclear under what conditions the footage was recorded. Meanwhile, Abdolreza Ghandehari, a teacher, and Mohsen Baveri were arrested in recent days in the cities of Neyshabur and Abdanan. Furthermore, the IRGC Intelligence announced the arrest or summoning of at least 735 individuals across the country.

According to Mehr News Agency, two citizens were arrested in connection with the protests in Kerman. This media outlet claimed that one of them was the main figure involved in cooperation with Mossad and was arrested in Kerman by agents of the IRGC Intelligence Organization.

Channels close to security institutions also reported the arrest of three individuals in Semnan. According to these reports, the arrests were carried out in connection with the nationwide protests, and the detainees have been accused of cooperating with Mossad.

The Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) also announced that 16 citizens were arrested in Tehran by agents of The Ministry of Intelligence’s detention facility. These individuals were accused of damaging public property. The Ministry of Intelligence further claimed that “40 firearms, a number of homemade bombs, and a large quantity of alcoholic beverages” were discovered in their possession.

Separately, Tasnim News Agency, citing the IRGC Intelligence, reported that at least 735 individuals have been arrested or summoned nationwide.

The IRGC Intelligence described these arrests and summonses under charges such as “elements linked to anti-security networks and members of networks cooperating with foreign intelligence services.” The organization also claimed that 46 of these individuals were members of foreign intelligence services and alleged that 743 unauthorized military and hunting weapons were confiscated from them. This security-affiliated media outlet further reported that one citizen from Lumar in Ilam Province was arrested by security forces.

These reports have also included videos of forced confessions from five individuals, with no information available regarding the conditions under which the recordings were made.

In addition, Abdolreza Ghandehari, a teacher from Neyshabur, was arrested in that city. According to reports by a teachers’ union channel, Mr. Ghandehari was arrested on January 17 during the nationwide protests in Neyshabur. Since then, he has had no contact with his family, and no information has been obtained regarding his condition or place of detention, raising serious concerns among his family. Abdolreza Ghandehari has previously faced judicial action due to his activities.

Kurdpa News Agency also reported on the continued detention and lack of information regarding a citizen named Mohsen Baveri from Abdanan. According to this report, he was arrested on January 17 in Abdanan, and no information has since been made available about his condition. Despite the family’s follow-ups with judicial authorities, officials have refused to provide clear answers regarding his fate, further intensifying the concerns of his family and relatives.

As of the time of this report, no information is available regarding the charges against these individuals or their place of detention.

It should be noted that protests and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days spread beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread movements in recent years. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-sixth day of the protests, published last night.

Day Twenty-Six of the Protests: Government Commits Violence, Denies Responsibility, and Continues Mass Arrests

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Freedom of Expression, News
HRA, HRANA, iran protests, Iran protests 2026, irgc, Netblocks

HRANA – On the twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests, according to aggregated data compiled by HRANA, the number of confirmed fatalities has reached 5,002, while the number of deaths still under investigation has risen to 9,787. In addition, at least 7,391 people have suffered serious injuries during the protests, and the total number of arrests has increased to 26,852. These figures were recorded under circumstances in which, just one day earlier, official authorities, by citing significantly lower numbers reportedly issued by the Legal Medicine Organization, attempted to solidify the government’s official narrative regarding the killings. At the same time, the internet shutdown in Iran, now approaching its third week, has continued unabated.

Developments on the twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests in Iran were shaped less by new events on the ground and more by efforts to entrench the government’s official narrative of the killings, the continued internet blackout with no clear timeline, and the escalation of international reactions and pressure. At the same time, a wider discrepancy emerged between the figures announced by the government and the data reported by independent human rights organizations.

Disruption of Communications on the Twenty-Sixth Day of the Protests

On the twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests, Iran’s communications situation remained in a critical and unprecedented state. The shutdown or severe disruption of internet access and digital communications, one of the central tools of control and repression, continued. According to data and reports published on this day, the internet blackout, which began on the evening of January 8, entered its third consecutive week. This situation has effectively reduced Iran’s connection to the global internet to the bare minimum, keeping the country in a state of “digital darkness.”

International internet monitoring organizations, including NetBlocks, released updated graphs showing that internet connectivity in Iran remains at its lowest level, with only very limited and tightly controlled connections available on certain domestic networks or in specific locations. These organizations emphasized that the disruption of digital communications in Iran is not a technical failure, but rather a deliberate and centralized decision by the authorities aimed at controlling the flow of information and preventing the dissemination of news about the suppression of protesters.

On the same day, uncertainty regarding when and how internet access might be restored also persisted. Official authorities, including the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council, stated that there is no specific timeline for the full removal of restrictions and that any restoration of access would occur in a “gradual, localized, and issue-based” manner. These statements were widely interpreted as signaling the continuation of controlled communications policies and the ongoing filtering and blocking of foreign platforms, even if limited internet access were to resume. At the same time, reports indicated that even in cases of temporary connectivity, access to many global communication platforms and social media networks remained blocked or highly unstable.

The consequences of this situation became increasingly evident on the twenty-sixth day. The communications shutdown has severely disrupted independent documentation of events, the transfer of images and videos related to the protests and repression, and even basic communication among families. Field reports indicate that many images depicting widespread violence during the peak days of the protests have leaked out of the country only after long delays, without the ability to accurately determine the time and location of the incidents. This has not only made the work of media outlets and human rights organizations more difficult, but has also greatly reduced the possibility of independently verifying official narratives.

Domestically, the internet shutdown has also brought about extensive economic and social consequences. Businesses, especially online businesses, and internet-based services have been effectively paralyzed, and many citizens have reported being unable to carry out daily tasks or access online banking, educational, and healthcare services. Some economic and social figures warned of its long-term repercussions for the economy, public mental well-being, and public trust.

In the media sphere, the continued disruption of communications has led citizens to increasingly turn to alternative news sources, including shortwave and medium-wave radio broadcasts, a phenomenon that itself reflects a serious regression in the country’s communications infrastructure.

Overall, the twenty-sixth day of the protests passed with communications disruption continuing not merely as a temporary measure, but as a structural component of the authorities’ security strategy for managing the crisis, a strategy whose consequences include an intensification of the information vacuum, the spread of rumors, and a deepening divide between the official narrative and the lived experiences of citizens.

The Security Atmosphere Prevailing in Cities

On the twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests, the security atmosphere across various cities in Iran was reported to remain heavy, pervasive, and deterrent. This environment relied less on overt clashes and more on preemptive control, displays of force, and the instilling of fear among the public. Field reports indicate that the visible presence of security forces, law enforcement units, and plainclothes agents in city centers, main squares, busy routes, and around sensitive sites continued noticeably, and in some areas intensified through mobile checkpoints and motorcycle patrols.

In many cities, these heightened security measures increased particularly during the late afternoon and nighttime hours, when security forces stationed themselves in streets and neighborhoods, effectively reducing the possibility of gatherings or collective movement to a minimum. Citizens have reported widespread checks, temporary vehicle stops, mobile phone inspections, and sporadic arrests, measures that, according to eyewitnesses, were less a response to specific assemblies and more preventive and intimidating in nature.

At the same time, reports emerged of increased pressure on the families of those killed and detained. In some cities, security forces reportedly visited homes or made phone calls warning families against holding memorial ceremonies, gathering, or speaking to the media. This approach is assessed as part of broader efforts to prevent the formation of new focal points of protest and to contain the social and symbolic dimensions of mourning.

The prevailing security environment has had a direct impact on citizens’ daily lives. A noticeable decline in nighttime movement, the early closure of some businesses, and widespread caution in public interactions were among the consequences highlighted in field reports.

Letter from the Human Rights Activists Addressed to the Human Rights Council on the Twenty-Sixth Day of the Protests

On the twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests, the Human Rights Activists in Iran (HRA) published a letter addressed to the United Nations Human Rights Council, seeking to draw the attention of member states to what it described as “documented and alarming patterns of repression” in Iran. The letter was released on the eve of a special session of the Human Rights Council on Iran and was intended to provide concise, documented, and up-to-date information to assist council members in their decision-making.

In the letter, HRA emphasized that the findings presented were based on verified HRANA reports and individual case documentation, and that the figures cited represent absolute minimums. The organization warned that due to the ongoing internet shutdown and severe restrictions on the free flow of information, the true scale of repression and the number of victims could exceed the available data.

The central focus of the letter was the pattern of widespread use of lethal force against unarmed protesters. The organization referred to direct gunfire at demonstrators, the deaths of citizens in the streets, and the transfer of large numbers of injured individuals to medical facilities, describing this trend as indicative of serious and systematic violations of the right to life. At the same time, the letter pointed to mass arrests during and after the protests and warned about the unknown status of thousands of detainees, as well as restrictions on their access to lawyers and family members.

Another section of the letter addressed the issue of forced confessions, describing their broadcast on state media as a violation of the principles of fair trial and human dignity. In this context, the organization stressed that such actions not only impose additional psychological pressure on detainees, but are also used as a tool to legitimize repression.

The letter also emphasized the necessity of continued independent investigations and international accountability. HRA called on member states of the Human Rights Council to respond effectively to the human rights situation in Iran based on the available documentation and to prevent impunity for those responsible for widespread human rights violations. Overall, the letter seeks to provide decision-makers at the Human Rights Council with a clear picture of what has occurred during the protests, without delving into political analysis.

Updated Statistics (Cumulative)

Based on aggregated data recorded up to the end of the twenty-sixth day of the protests:

• Number of recorded gatherings/protests: 633 cases

• Number of cities involved (no duplicates): 192 cities

• Number of provinces involved (no duplicates): 31 provinces

• Confirmed fatalities: 5,002 individuals

Protesters: 4,714
Children (under 18 years old): 42
Government-affiliated forces (military and civilian): 207
Non-protesters/civilians: 39

• Fatalities under investigation: 9,787 individuals

• Seriously injured: 7,391 individuals

• Total arrests: 26,852 individuals

• Broadcasts of forced confessions: 192 cases

International Reactions on the Twenty-Sixth Day of the Protests

On the twenty-sixth day of Iran’s nationwide protests, international reactions continued less in the form of new immediate actions and more through intensified political stances, statements by foreign officials, and the growing linkage between Iran’s internal situation and regional security developments. A review of coverage in international media shows that Iran was simultaneously addressed on human rights, diplomatic, and security levels on this day.

The most significant international development was a clear stance taken by the European Parliament against the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). According to published reports, members of the European Parliament condemned the widespread repression of protesters and the nationwide internet shutdown in Iran, reiterating their position that the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps should be designated as a terrorist organization. This position was expressed within official parliamentary sessions and statements, explicitly highlighting the IRGC’s role in suppressing protests, killing demonstrators, and committing widespread human rights violations.

Members of the European Parliament described the internet shutdown as part of the machinery of repression and concealment of violence, emphasizing that communications blackouts have severely limited independent documentation and accountability for those responsible for the crackdown. Some representatives called on the European Union to move beyond political statements and respond with concrete and binding measures, including targeted sanctions and legal action, in reaction to the IRGC’s role in repressing the protests.

Alongside these international meetings, statements by political leaders regarding Iran also drew attention. Volodymyr Zelenskyy, President of Ukraine, stated unequivocally that if the Islamic Republic is able to remain in power through the killing of its own citizens, it would signal the failure of the international community to effectively support the people of Iran. These remarks, which were widely circulated in public and media spaces, reflect a growing level of concern and frankness in the discourse of some political leaders regarding the repression of protests in Iran.

Overall, international reactions on the twenty-sixth day of the protests reflected not so much the adoption of immediate executive decisions, but rather the increasing political and security weight of the Iran dossier in global discourse. Clear statements by foreign leaders, the linking of Iran’s internal developments to regional security calculations, and sustained extensive media coverage indicate that the suppression of protests in Iran continues to be treated internationally as an issue that goes beyond a purely domestic crisis.

Government Responses on the Twenty-Sixth Day of the Protests

On the twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests, the Iranian government’s responses focused primarily on consolidating the official narrative of events, defending the performance of security and judicial institutions, and countering independent and international accounts. The collection of statements issued by officials on this day indicates that the authorities sought to present a unified portrayal of developments through the release of statistics, technical explanations, and security-based frameworks, while distancing themselves from responsibility for the killings and violence.

The most significant governmental stance on this day was the release and amplification of remarks by the head of the Legal Medicine Organization. Announcing what was described as a “final report,” he stated that 3,117 deaths had been recorded in the “recent incidents,” emphasizing that this figure was the result of “scientific and specialized” examinations of bodies. While he noted that women, children, the elderly, and passersby were among the victims, he simultaneously attributed the primary source of violence to what he called “terrorist elements.” The head of the organization claimed that victims had been killed using a wide range of weapons, including live ammunition, hunting rifles, pellet guns, and even bladed weapons, presenting this as evidence of the “criminal nature” of protesters and those involved in the unrest.

Continuing this narrative, government officials explicitly rejected higher figures published by media outlets and human rights organizations. Both the Legal Medicine Organization and the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council dismissed reports claiming 12,000 to 20,000 deaths as “rumors” and “media distortions.” They argued that these figures stemmed from a misunderstanding of the forensic case-numbering system, which includes all unnatural deaths recorded over the course of a year and should not be attributed to the recent protests. Within this framework, officials also stated that delays in releasing official statistics were due to the need to carefully distinguish between ordinary civilians, government forces, and what they described as “armed elements.”

At the same time, the Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council and other security officials sought to shift public attention from human casualties to the alleged “destructive and violent dimensions” of the protests by presenting lists of claimed damages. These statements referred to the damage or destruction of hundreds of ambulances, banks, fuel stations, government buildings, and police vehicles, and even included allegations of damage to educational, religious, and cultural centers. This narrative portrayed the protests not as a social movement of dissent, but as an “organized and destructive action against national security.”

Another aspect of the government’s response addressed the issue of handing over bodies and interactions with the families of those killed. The Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council categorically denied that any money had been demanded from families in exchange for the return of victims’ bodies, claiming that in the few cases where burial-related fees at religious sites had been charged, orders had been issued to halt the practice and refund the amounts. These remarks were made in response to reports and testimonies alleging pressure on families and the extraction of payments for the release of bodies.

Alongside these points, the government’s security narrative on the twenty-sixth day intensified with new claims. Officials asserted that the recent protests were directed from outside the country and that “key elements” had organized and trained protesters through online platforms. It was also claimed that a significant portion of detainees had been under the influence of hallucinogenic substances or alcohol at the time of the violence, and promises were made to release “new confessions” related to these allegations. These statements reinforced a framework that denies social grievances as the root of the protests, instead presenting them as the product of “foreign conspiracy and organized unrest.”

Summary

The twenty-sixth day of nationwide protests passed with the consolidation of the government’s official narrative regarding casualty figures, the continuation of the internet shutdown with no clear horizon, and mounting international reactions and pressure. At the same time, the gap between official government statistics and independent human rights data persisted, remaining unresolved amid severe restrictions on access to information.

Nationwide Protests: Report on the Arrest of 11 Citizens, Including a Teenager, in Various Cities

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Freedom of Expression, News
Ajvan Khazrian, Erfan Mavasati, Ghazal Ghandari, Hossein Amiri, Milad Mirzabeygi, Mohammad Hadi Jafarpoor, Payam Mirzabeygi, Sina Mirzabeygi, Yadi Sarmasti

HRANA – In recent days, the arrest of 11 citizens, including Mohammad Hadi Jafarpoor, a lawyer in Shiraz; Ghazal Ghandari, a 16-year-old teenager in Yasuj; and Erfan Movasati, a student activist, was reported in connection with the nationwide protests.

In addition, there has been no information about the current status of Arman Shapouri, a teacher from Izeh, despite more than three weeks having passed since his arrest. Furthermore, Ajvan Khazrian in Sardasht and Sediq Yousef-Pour in Saqqez were arrested by security forces. On the other hand, Hossein Amiri, Yadi Sarmasti, Milad Mirzabeygi, Payam Mirzabeygi, and Sina Mirzabeygi have been detained for more than two weeks in the cities of Dehgolan and Ilam, and no information has yet been obtained about their current condition.

Based on information received by HRANA, Mr. Jafarpoor was arrested three days ago in Shiraz. Ghazal Ghandari, a 16-year-old teenager, was arrested by security forces in Yasuj on January 20. Erfan Movasati, secretary of the Islamic Association of Students at the Faculty of Dentistry, was also arrested on January 11. These citizens were transferred to undisclosed locations after their arrest.

Kurdpa News Agency also published reports on the arrest of two citizens named Ajvan Khazrian in Sardasht and Sediq Yousef-Pour in Saqqez. Mr. Yousef-Pour was arrested on Wednesday, Bahman 1, and Mr. Khazrian on January 20, without the presentation of a judicial warrant. These individuals were transferred to undisclosed locations following their arrest.

In another report, Kurdpa News Agency reported the continued detention and lack of information regarding five citizens named Hossein Amiri and Yadi Sarmasti in Dehgolan, and Milad Mirzabeygi, Payam Mirzabeygi, and Sina Mirzabeygi in Ilam.

According to the report, these citizens have been detained for more than two weeks, and no information has so far been obtained about their current status. Despite follow-ups by their families with judicial authorities, the relevant officials have refused to provide clear answers regarding their fate, a matter that has intensified the concerns of their families and relatives.

Meanwhile, the Teachers’ Union channel reported the arrest of Arman Shapouri, a teacher from Izeh, in that city.

The report states that Mr. Shapouri was arrested on December 30, during the nationwide protests in Izeh. Since then, this teacher has had no contact with his family, and no information has been obtained about his current condition or place of detention, raising serious concerns among his family.

As of the time of this report, no information has been obtained regarding the charges brought against these individuals.

Mohammad Hadi Jafarpoor, a lawyer, has previously faced judicial actions due to his professional activities.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days spread beyond markets and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests turned into one of the most widespread demonstrations in recent years. For more information, readers can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-fifth day of the protests, published last night.

Nationwide Protests: At Least 40 Citizens Arrested and Judicial Cases Opened Against 125 Others

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Freedom of Expression, News
Abadan, HRANA, Kerman, Rafsanjan, Sirjan

HRANA – During the recent nationwide protests, 33 individuals in Kerman were arrested on charges of being “active leaders affiliated with monarchist groups on Instagram and Telegram,” and judicial cases have been opened against 125 others. Additionally, seven citizens were arrested in Abadan and Tehran. At the same time, videos containing forced confessions by these citizens have been released, though the conditions under which they were recorded remain unclear.

According to Tasnim News Agency, 33 citizens, described as “active leaders affiliated with monarchist groups on Instagram and Telegram,” who had issued calls on January 6, 2026, were arrested.

It is also claimed that these individuals had formed 50 groups and teams in Kerman, Rafsanjan, and Sirjan, and that judicial cases have been opened against 125 people linked to these groups.

Iran’s state broadcaster (IRIB) also released a video report announcing the arrest of at least two citizens in Abadan and five citizens in Tehran. The report alleged that these individuals had set fire to police stations in Tehran’s Vanak district and in Abadan.

Simultaneously, videos of forced confessions by these citizens have been published, although it is unclear under what conditions they were recorded.

These reports do not mention the place of detention or the identities of those arrested.

It is worth noting that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, 2025. After two days, the protests spread beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these demonstrations became one of the most widespread protests of recent years. For more information, readers can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-fourth day of the protests, which was published last night.

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Day Twenty-Five of Protests: Continued Internet Blackout and Officials’ Narrative-Building on the Death Toll

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Freedom of Expression, News
death toll, HRANA, iran protests

HRANA – On the twenty-fifth day of nationwide protests in Iran, according to aggregated data compiled by HRANA, the number of confirmed fatalities has reached 4,902, while the number of deaths still under review stands at 9,387. Additionally, at least 7,389 people have sustained severe injuries, and the total number of arrests has risen to 26,541. These figures are recorded amid the continued widespread internet shutdown, while at the same time the government, by releasing limited and selective statistics, is attempting to solidify its official narrative regarding the scale of the killings.

Developments on the twenty-fifth day are largely related to narrative-building around recent events, the government’s efforts to present statistics, and shifts in diplomacy. However, the security atmosphere continues to dominate cities, and international pressure has increased.

Disruption of Communications: “Indefinite Time” as Official Policy

On the twenty-fifth day, Iranian officials expressed new positions regarding the internet. The Secretary of the Supreme National Security Council announced that the timing of the internet’s return is unspecified, a statement that contradicted earlier positions, in which vague promises of a “gradual restoration” had been made. This stance effectively transforms the internet shutdown from a “temporary measure” into an open-ended and indefinite situation.

Under these conditions, the limited and selective access provided to certain institutions or specific users should not be considered a sign of the internet’s return, but rather part of a controlled access model. This situation has severely disrupted independent documentation of the protests, follow-up on the conditions of detainees and those killed, and even communication among families. According to observers, it has become a key crisis-management tool for the authorities.

Security Atmosphere: Consolidation of Government Control Over Cities Without the Expansion of Open Protests

Field reports from various cities indicate that although the level of public gatherings has declined compared to the initial weeks, the presence of security and law enforcement forces remains extensive and highly visible. Street-level controls, motorcycle patrols, and the presence of plainclothes forces in urban areas persist, with restrictions intensifying during the evening hours.

This situation should be assessed less as a sign of the protests having fully subsided and more as the result of a combination of factors such as severe repression, mass arrests, and communication shutdowns. At the same time, reports point to the persistence of social discontent across different segments of society, discontent that, in the absence of the ability to organize and communicate, is less likely to manifest in coordinated demonstrations.

Discrepancies Between Officials’ Claims and Figures Derived from Independent Reports

One of the main developments on the twenty-fifth day was the government’s presentation of its official narrative regarding the scale of the killings and recent violence. The head of the Legal Medicine Organization announced what was described as a “final report,” stating that 3,117 people had been killed in the “recent incidents,” and emphasized that the victims included women, children, the elderly, and bystanders. In the same remarks, the causes of death were attributed to a range of weapons, including live ammunition, hunting firearms, pellet guns, and even bladed weapons, while primary responsibility for the violence was placed on “terrorist elements” and forces allegedly trained abroad.

At the same time, security officials rejected higher figures reported by foreign media, including claims of 12,000 to 20,000 deaths, describing them as the result of a “misinterpretation of the forensic case-numbering system.” They stressed that delays in releasing official statistics were due to the need to carefully distinguish between civilians, security forces, and armed individuals. Alongside casualty figures, government officials also presented extensive statistics on damage to infrastructure, as well as government, religious, and educational facilities, in an effort to shift the dominant narrative from the killing of protesters to the “scale of destruction and organized violence.” This narrative, however, has been met with widespread skepticism and criticism amid the continued internet shutdown and restricted access to independent information.

International Reactions: Continued Condemnations and Escalating Political Pressure

At the international level, reactions to the crackdown on protests in Iran continued on the twenty-fifth day. Members of the European Parliament once again condemned the internet shutdown and the killing of protesters, stressing the need for more concrete actions. At the same time, discussions emerged in international forums regarding more targeted sanctions and holding those responsible for the crackdown accountable.

In the United States, statements by senior officials, including the country’s president, received widespread attention. Referring to the crackdown on protests in Iran, he spoke of widespread shootings of civilians and the possibility of mass executions. These remarks were rejected by officials of the Islamic Republic, but they contributed to heightened verbal and political tensions at the international level.

Government Response: Widespread Denial, Downplaying of Figures, and Continuation of a Security-Oriented Approach

In response to these pressures, the government’s reaction on the twenty-fifth day focused on denial, minimizing casualty figures, and reproducing a security-based narrative. Officials continued to describe protesters using labels such as “rioters” and “foreign agents,” placing responsibility for the killings on what they called “imposed insecurity.”

The government’s security and judicial approach has not only failed to be scaled back, but in the absence of widespread public protests, efforts have instead been made to institutionalize repression and violence and turn them into routine practices.

Updated Statistics (Aggregated)

Based on aggregated data recorded up to the end of Day 25:

• Number of recorded gatherings/protests: 633

• Number of cities involved (non-duplicated): 192

• Number of provinces involved (non-duplicated): 31

• Confirmed deaths: 4,902

Protesters: 4,622

Children (under 18): 40

Government/affiliated forces (military and civilian): 201

Non-protesters/civilians: 39

• Deaths under investigation: 9,387

• Seriously injured: 7,389

• Total arrests: 26,541

• Broadcast forced confessions: 181 cases

Summary

On the twenty-fifth day of nationwide protests, the internet shutdown continued, and this time officials adopted a different stance, stating that the timing of reconnection was unspecified. On the same day, officials released their own death toll figures in an effort to challenge statistics reported by independent sources. Meanwhile, international pressure persisted, and the government sought to maintain political and media control of the situation by downplaying the numbers and emphasizing a security-oriented narrative.

Arrest of 169 People in Various Cities Across Iran

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Freedom of Expression, News, Other
Abadeh, Darab, Fasa, Kazerun, Kovar, Marvdasht, Neyriz, Nourabad, Pasargad, Sabzevar, Shahreza, Shiraz, Talesh

HRANA – Media outlets close to security institutions have reported the arrest of seven protesters, including one woman, in the cities of Qom, Talesh, Sabzevar, and Shahreza. At the same time, videos of the “confessions” of two of these citizens have been released, though it is unclear under what conditions these recordings were made. Meanwhile, 162 protesting citizens were arrested by security forces in the cities of Shiraz, Marvdasht, Kovar, Kazerun, Nourabad, Pasargad, Abadeh, Fasa, Darab, and Neyriz.

According to the state broadcaster (IRIB), a female protester was arrested during the protests in Qom. In this report, she is accused of setting fire to a mosque in the city.

Separately, Young Journalists Club, quoting the police commander of Talesh, claimed that a 30-year-old citizen who allegedly set fire to a bank in the city was arrested. At the same time, Fars News Agency reported the arrest of one individual in Sabzevar.

Tasnim News Agency also announced that four citizens were arrested by security forces in the city of Shahreza. According to this outlet, the detainees were accused of setting fire to a mosque and, after case files were formed, were referred to judicial authorities for legal proceedings.

In these reports, videos of the “confessions” of two of the detainees were published, although it remains unclear under what circumstances they were recorded.

In another report, the state broadcaster announced the arrest of 162 citizens by security forces in the cities of Shiraz, Marvdasht, Kovar, Kazerun, Nourabad, Pasargad, Abadeh, Fasa, Darab, and Neyriz.

This report has accused the detained individuals of damaging banks and government centers and property, including municipal buildings.

These reports do not mention the identities of the detainees or their place of detention.

It should be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28, and after two days spread beyond markets and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the most widespread demonstrations in recent years. For more information, readers can refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-fourth day of protests, published last night.

Day Twenty-Four of the Protests: Continued Communications Blackout and International Warnings of Crimes Against Humanity

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Freedom of Expression, News
Hammihan, HRANA, internet shutdown, iran protests

HRANA – On the twenty-fourth day of nationwide protests, according to aggregated data compiled by HRANA, the number of confirmed deaths has reached 4,519, while the number of deaths still under investigation stands at 9,049. At least 5,811 people have sustained serious injuries during the protests, and the total number of arrests has risen to 26,314. These figures, amid a communications blackout, security pressure on families, and restricted access to information, likely reflect only a portion of the reality on the ground.

At the same time, developments such as the release of an unprecedented statement by physicians and forensic medicine specialists regarding the alarming treatment of those injured and killed during the protests, the announcement of an emergency session of the United Nations Human Rights Council, and warnings by the body’s Special Rapporteur about the potential commission of crimes against humanity all indicate that Iran’s human rights crisis has entered a new and deeper phase.

Nationwide protests in Iran continued into their twenty-fourth day under conditions of widespread internet shutdowns and severe communication restrictions, while judicial and security pressures on media outlets, public figures, and protesting citizens intensified. On that day, the announcement of an emergency session of the United Nations Human Rights Council signaled the scale and severity of the human rights crisis in Iran.

Disruption of communications and uncertainty over the timing of restored internet access

On the twenty-fourth day of protests, widespread internet shutdowns and disruptions continued. According to data from global traffic monitoring organizations, Iran is experiencing one of the lowest levels of international internet connectivity in the world. This blackout, now entering one of the longest periods of nationwide communications disruption in recent years, has become a key tool for controlling public space, suppressing the flow of information, and limiting independent documentation of the protests.

While there have been reports of brief and extremely limited internet connections for some users, these instances appear less indicative of a sustained restoration of access and more reflective of shifts in how restrictions are being enforced. At the same time, there are indications of the government’s efforts to implement selective internet access and expand the use of a domestic network (intranet), a move that, if enforced, would further restrict citizens’ free access to the global internet and independent platforms.

Statements by government officials have added to the existing ambiguity. On the one hand, promises have been made regarding the restoration of internet access in the coming days; on the other, the head of the Digital Transformation Commission of the Iran Computer Trade Organization has stated that even if general connectivity is restored, reconnecting foreign platforms will not be possible. These positions indicate that the government’s communications policy is aimed less at returning to the previous status quo and more at managing access in a controlled manner.

The consequences of this situation extend beyond the media and information sphere. Internet shutdowns have seriously disrupted economic activities, online services, family communications, access to medical and emergency services, and the ability to track the status of detainees and the injured. According to human rights organizations, these conditions have increased the risk of enforced disappearances, pressure on families, and the concealment of the true scale of the crackdown.

Escalating Pressure on the Media: Charges Brought Against Two Publications Following the Suspension of Hammihan

As part of ongoing efforts to control the media narrative surrounding the protests, the Tehran Prosecutor’s Office announced that criminal cases have been filed against two additional media outlets. This move came just one day after the suspension of Hammihan newspaper, whose editor-in-chief stated that the ban was imposed due to the publication of reports on violations of medical privacy during the protests.

According to the prosecutor’s statement, the new cases have been opened on charges of “spreading false news” related to the nationwide protests. These actions are taking place amid internet shutdowns and widespread restrictions that have severely curtailed the ability of independent media to operate freely, effectively allowing the government’s official narrative to dominate the domestic public sphere. Observers view the simultaneous suspension of media outlets and the internet blackout as evidence of intensified information control and an effort to prevent the dissemination of on-the-ground reporting about the suppression of protests.

Statement by Physicians and Forensic Specialists: Warning of Systematic Violations of Medical and Autopsy Standards

On the twenty-fourth day, a group of medical doctors, paramedics, and forensic medicine specialists released an analytical statement examining publicly available images and videos of those injured and killed during the protests. The statement points to serious and alarming patterns indicating violations of fundamental principles of medicine, forensic practice, and medical neutrality.

The report cites evidence suggesting that some of the deceased had undergone medical intervention prior to death. The presence of equipment such as angiocatheter lines, urinary catheters, breathing tubes, and cardiac monitoring devices on bodies found outside medical settings strengthens the possibility that some injured individuals died after treatment had begun or were removed from medical facilities without confirmation of death.

Other sections of the statement refer to cases in which gunshot-wounded individuals were abandoned without triage or treatment, extensive abdominal incisions carried out outside recognized forensic protocols, signs of severe physical violence, mutilation, decapitation, and the collective relocation of bodies. There are also reports of evidence consistent with exposure to toxic chemical substances and severe thermal destruction of remains, factors that severely limit the possibility of conducting independent forensic examinations.

The signatories emphasized that although the report faces methodological limitations due to the lack of direct access to bodies and medical records, the overall findings are consistent with patterns of systematic mistreatment in mass casualties and serious human rights violations, and could serve as a basis for future independent investigations.

Heightened Security Atmosphere: Widespread Presence of Forces and Mass Arrests

Field reports received from various cities across the country indicate the persistence of a heavy security atmosphere. A widespread presence of law enforcement, security forces, Basij units, and plainclothes agents has been reported in public spaces, high-traffic areas, and at city entry and exit points. Checkpoints, motorcycle patrols, and on-the-ground controls have increased noticeably. This situation becomes particularly intense after nightfall, contributing to an atmosphere of deterrence and fear in urban areas.

At the same time, large-scale arrests continue across multiple provinces. According to HRANA reports, at least dozens of citizens have been arrested in provinces including Qazvin, Fars, Razavi Khorasan, Ilam, Semnan, and Kerman. In some cases, security agencies have labeled detainees as “protest leaders” or accused them of serious charges such as killing security personnel. The release of official or semi-official arrest figures, beyond their operational function, also serves as a warning and intimidation tactic aimed at suppressing protests through social pressure.

Judicial Action Against Public Figures: Cases Filed Against Athletes, Artists, and Business Owners

The Tehran Prosecutor’s Office has announced that judicial cases have been opened against 15 athletes and actors, 10 signatories of a statement by the Iranian House of Cinema, and 60 business units for supporting the nationwide protests. According to the statement, the assets of some of these individuals have also been seized.

These measures are part of a broader pattern of judicial action against well-known figures and cultural activists and are assessed as an effort to increase the social and economic costs of supporting the protests. At the same time, the failure to disclose the names of the accused and detailed information about the cases has added to the legal ambiguity surrounding these actions.

International Reactions: Escalating Political and Diplomatic Pressure

At the international level, reactions to the suppression of protests in Iran have continued and intensified. The European Parliament, strongly condemning the use of violence against protesters and the internet shutdown, has called for accountability from Iranian authorities, with some lawmakers emphasizing the need to tighten sanctions and diplomatic restrictions.

It has also been reported that several European airlines have suspended or halted their flights to Iran, and the European Union Aviation Safety Agency has advised airlines to avoid Iranian airspace. These decisions reflect growing concerns over the country’s security situation and the political consequences of recent developments.

Emergency Session of the UN Human Rights Council and Warning of Crimes Against Humanity

The United Nations Human Rights Council has announced that it will hold a special emergency session on Friday to address the human rights situation in Iran. The stated aim of the session is to examine violence against protesters, communications shutdowns, and other serious human rights violations.

In this context, the UN Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran has stated that existing evidence, including images and videos showing direct gunfire at unarmed civilians, raises the need to examine the possible commission of crimes against humanity. She described the internet shutdown as one of the main obstacles to independent investigations and called for unrestricted access by international bodies to information and evidence.

Evidence Pointing to the Military’s Role in the Crackdown

In recent days, uncertainty and speculation regarding the role of the military in the ongoing events have increased. The announcement of the identity of the first army casualty during the recent protests, along with the lack of transparent explanation regarding his mission, has raised questions about the level of the military’s involvement in confronting the protests. Although officials have not confirmed a direct role for the army in street-level repression, certain statements and field evidence have fueled these speculations.

Government Responses: Emphasis on a Security and Judicial Approach

On the twenty-fourth day of the protests, government officials’ responses became increasingly focused on controlling the narrative, managing international repercussions, and intensifying domestic judicial action. While no nationwide official casualty figures have been released, scattered remarks by some local officials have created cracks in the official narrative.

In this context, the deputy for security and law enforcement affairs of the Razavi Khorasan Governor’s Office stated that “around 400 people” had been killed in Mashhad (a remark that were first published by pro-government media and later removed). These statements were immediately followed by efforts to discredit them, with the deceased largely described as “martyrs” or as victims of “rioters.” The rapid removal of these remarks from official media outlets is seen as a sign of the authorities’ sensitivity to the publication of any uncontrolled casualty figures.

On the security front, military and law enforcement officials continue to emphasize a narrative of “confronting organized and terrorist riots.” At the same time, some official statements have attempted to deny or downplay the use of live ammunition by government forces—a position that contradicts extensive medical evidence, published videos, and field reports documenting direct gunfire against unarmed protesters.

Overall, the government’s responses on the twenty-fourth day were focused less on transparent accountability regarding casualties and the handling of protesters, and more on information control, deterrent judicial measures, and managing political and international consequences.

Updated Statistics

Based on aggregated data recorded up to the end of the twenty-third day of protests:

• Number of recorded gatherings/protests: 629

• Number of cities involved (non-duplicated): 188

• Number of provinces involved (non-duplicated): 31

• Confirmed deaths: 4,519

Protesters: 4,251

Children (under 18): 33

Government/affiliated forces (military and civilian): 197

Non-protesters/civilians: 38

• Deaths under investigation: 9,049

• Seriously injured: 5,811

• Total arrests: 26,314

• Broadcast forced confessions: 167 cases

Note: Given the widespread internet shutdowns, the pervasive security environment, and restricted access to information, the actual figures are likely significantly higher. The data presented above is based exclusively on individually verified cases.

Summary

The twenty-fourth day of nationwide protests passed amid the continued internet blackout, intensified pressure on media outlets and public figures, and growing alarming reports regarding the treatment of the injured and the deceased. At the same time, international reactions and the convening of an emergency session of the United Nations Human Rights Council increasingly placed Iran’s human rights crisis at the center of global attention.

Reports of the Arrest of at Least 186 Citizens During Nationwide Protests

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Freedom of Expression, News, Other
Abdanan, Arkavaz-e Malekshahi, Asmanabad, Farajollah Shoushtari, Holilan, irgc, Qazvin, Sabzevar, Sarableh

HRANA – IRGC Intelligence in Qazvin Province announced the arrest of 166 citizens under the label of “leaders” of the protests. In Fars Province, at least 18 protesting citizens were arrested. Meanwhile, a number of protesters in Mashhad were detained on charges of killing a security force member. Several citizens were also arrested in Ilam Province, where the provincial Intelligence Organization reported the arrest of one citizen on charges of killing the police commander of Holilan County.

According to  Tasnim News Agency, a number of protesting citizens were arrested in Mashhad. The report, without specifying the identities or number of those detained, claims that these arrests were carried out on charges related to the killing of Farajollah Shoushtari during the nationwide protests in Mashhad.

Separately, the state broadcaster IRIB reported that the IRGC Intelligence in Qazvin Province had arrested 166 protesting citizens. These arrests were carried out under the designation of “agents of the main protest leaders.”

Mehr News Agency also reported the arrest of a woman in the city of Sabzevar. At the same time, a video of her forced confession was released, though it remains unclear under what conditions it was recorded.

Daneshjoo News Agency likewise aired a video reporting the arrest of a number of citizens in Fars Province. At least 18 individuals can be seen in the footage. Simultaneously, videos containing forced confessions from some of these citizens were also published.

IRIB further announced that several citizens who protested on January 8 in the cities of Sarableh, Asmanabad, Holeylan, Arkavaz-e Malekshahi, and Abdanan were arrested. The media outlet claimed that these individuals were responsible for damaging public and government property, banks, setting fire to the Friday prayer leader’s office and the main mosque of Sarableh, blocking roads, armed intimidation, and threatening shopkeepers in these cities.

In the same report, the Ilam Province Intelligence announced the arrest of one citizen on charges of killing the police commander of Holeylan County. In addition, it was claimed that several citizens in Darreh Shahr County were arrested under accusations of “links to group elements and ethnic separatists.”

None of these reports provided information regarding the identities or places of detention of the arrested citizens.

It should be noted that gatherings and strikes by shopkeepers and bazaar merchants began in Tehran on Sunday, December 28. After two days, the scope of these actions expanded beyond bazaars and commercial centers. With the participation of students, citizens, and various social groups, these protests became one of the most widespread demonstrations in recent years. For more information, readers may refer to HRANA’s detailed report on the twenty-third day of protests, published last night.

Day Twenty-Three of the Protests: Internet Blackout, Media Clampdown, and Cancellation of Davos Invitation

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Freedom of Expression, News

HRANA – On the twenty-third day of nationwide protests, according to HRANA’s aggregated data, the number of confirmed fatalities has reached 4,029, while the number of fatalities under review stands at 9,049. Additionally, at least 5,811 people have sustained severe injuries during the protests, and the total number of arrests has risen to 26,015. Alongside the continued heavy security presence in various cities, reports today also pointed to widespread arrests as well as media and intelligence-related measures, including the suspension of Ham-Mihan newspaper and the ongoing restriction of communications.

As Iran nears the thirteenth day of the internet shutdown, prospects for access to foreign platforms remain uncertain, even in the event of a partial restoration of connectivity. The head of the Digital Transformation Commission of the Iran Computer Guild Organization stated that “given the current conditions, there is currently no space for reconnecting foreign platforms.”

Disruption of Communications

The widespread internet blackout and communications disruption in Iran, which according to reports has now entered its thirteenth day, continues to serve as a central tool for controlling public space and restricting the flow of information amid the protests. Indicators of Iran’s connectivity to the global internet have been reported at extremely low levels in recent days. At the same time, there have been reports of brief and intermittent connections which, rather than signaling a sustainable restoration of internet access, suggest a shift in tactics in the enforcement of restrictions.

In this context, NetBlocks has reported the continuation of the nationwide shutdown, while also noting signs that may indicate the testing of a domestic network (intranet) with even stricter filtering. If consolidated, such a scenario would further limit free access to the global internet and make independent information dissemination more difficult. These types of “limited re-openings” may be designed to maintain a minimal level of administrative and banking functions or to manage economic pressures, without restoring broad public access to communication tools and widely used platforms.

At the same time, government officials have attempted to present the timeline for the “return of the internet” as imminent. Hossein Afshin, the Vice President for Science and Technology, announced that the internet would return to normal “by order of the president” within the next two days or, at the latest, by the end of the week. He also stated that if the shutdown continues, “fixed IPs” would be provided for large companies, a solution critics consider inadequate, as without public access for citizens, service cycles and the digital economy would remain disrupted.

However, other statements indicate that even in case of “restored connectivity,” reopening foreign platforms and returning to previous conditions is far from certain. The head of the Digital Transformation Commission of the Iran Computer Guild Organization stated that, given current circumstances, the issue of lifting filtering has been postponed and that “at present, reconnecting foreign platforms is not possible.” This stance highlights the gap between “internet connectivity” and “meaningful access,” suggesting that communications policy may move toward a restricted, selective internet based on heightened control.

The consequences of the internet blackout have extended far beyond communications, affecting a wide range of daily activities, businesses, access to medical and emergency services, and even the flow of information regarding arrests and the condition of the injured. The disruption of communications, particularly amid intensified repression, increases the risk of enforced disappearances, pressure on families, and difficulties in independently verifying events. The disruption of communications, particularly amid intensified repression, increases the risk of enforced disappearances, pressure on families, and difficulties in independently verifying events, and effectively leads to the imposition of a state of deliberate ambiguity over the public sphere.

In line with this information-control policy, Ham-Mihan newspaper was also suspended today by the Press Supervisory Board. The editor-in-chief of the newspaper stated that the suspension was due to the publication of two articles, one of which addressed the issue of the “violation of medical neutrality during the protests” under the headline “The Hospital Story from Ilam to Sina.” The suspension of this newspaper, alongside internet restrictions, can be assessed as a simultaneous escalation of pressure on domestic media and tighter control over the public narrative.

Heightened Security Atmosphere

Today, a security atmosphere continued to prevail in many cities across Iran. These included the visible presence of law enforcement and security forces in streets and high-traffic areas, as well as increased field controls and heightened sensitivity toward even small gatherings. Reports from some areas point to the widespread deployment of forces, checkpoints, motorcycle patrols, and an increased level of “citizen monitoring.” In this context, the presence of security forces is not limited solely to managing gatherings but contributes to the creation of a deterrent and fear-inducing atmosphere across cities, particularly as night falls.

Alongside this situation, reports of arrests in various cities were also published today. According to HRANA, following the nationwide protests, six citizens were arrested in Rafsanjan, one citizen in Sirjan, and “several individuals” in cities across Semnan Province. Additionally, in Marivan, Pishva Salehi was arrested by security forces and transferred to an undisclosed location. In Malard, the arrest of another citizen was reported, and at the same time a video of their forced confessions was released, although the circumstances under which it was recorded remain unclear. Taken together, these cases indicate that arrests continue to be one of the main tools for on-the-ground suppression of protests and the creation of public fear.

At the same time, the announcement of mass arrests in Razavi Khorasan highlights the government’s security and intelligence measures. The province’s General Directorate of Intelligence reported the arrest of 192 citizens in connection with the protests. The publication of such official or semi-official figures, in addition to serving operational purposes, may also function as a form of threatening messaging aimed at social deterrence.

International Reactions

At the international level, one of the most significant developments today was the cancellation of Abbas Araghchi’s invitation to attend the World Economic Forum (Davos), a move that drew widespread attention. According to published reports, Araghchi was scheduled to participate on Tuesday, January 20, in a session titled “Shaping Cooperation in a Fragmenting World” in a lecture and Q&A format. However, the World Economic Forum announced that his invitation had been withdrawn.

At the regional level as well, it has been reported that developments in Iran were discussed during diplomatic contacts, with some governments emphasizing the need to monitor trends and pursue regional coordination. Taken together, these developments indicate that Iran’s recent protests and the authorities’ violent crackdown are simultaneously exerting a significant impact across the realms of political pressure, media attention, and the diplomatic sphere.

Government Reactions

In response to external pressure and reactions, as well as the continuation of protests, officials of the Islamic Republic once again emphasized a security and judicial measures in confronting the situation.

One of the most significant official positions today was a joint statement issued by the heads of the three branches of government. In this statement, Masoud Pezeshkian, Mohammad Bagher Ghalibaf, and Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei called for “leniency and compassion toward those who were deceived,” while simultaneously stressing the need for “decisive punishment of terrorist instigators.” This dual framing, distinguishing between the “deceived” and the “instigator-terrorist”, has in recent days become a recurring element of official rhetoric and provides justification for harsher judicial and security measures against a segment of detainees.

Along the same lines, the Commander-in-Chief of Iran’s Law Enforcement Forces (FARAJA) adopted a threatening tone. Ahmadreza Radan, while claiming that “complete security” prevails in cities, warned protesters that forces under his command would go after those who have not yet been arrested “one by one,” adding that they would be pursued “until the last person.” He also stated that “those who were misled must turn themselves in.” Beyond their threatening nature, these remarks convey a clear message about the continuation of arrests and retroactive prosecutions even after a temporary decline in street protests.

In the judicial sphere, emphasis was also placed on accelerating legal proceedings. Gholamhossein Mohseni Ejei stated that cases involving detainees must be handled “swiftly” and that delays in addressing the cases of the “main figures behind the unrest” would not be acceptable, a stance that, given past experience with security-related cases, raises concerns about fair trial standards and increased pressure on detainees.

On the diplomatic front, reactions were also voiced regarding the Davos decision. Among them, Iran’s ambassador to Switzerland reportedly described the cancellation of Araghchi’s invitation as an action “under the influence of the United States and Israel,” arguing that it damaged the credibility of the World Economic Forum. This position aligns with the official narrative that attributes the protests and their consequences to foreign interference

Statistics

Based on aggregated data recorded through the end of the twenty-third day of protests:

  • Number of recorded protest gatherings: 625

  • Number of cities involved (no duplicates): 188

  • Number of provinces involved (no duplicates): 31

  • Confirmed fatalities: 4,029

    • ▪️ Protesters: 3,786

    • ▪️ Children (under 18): 28

    • ▪️ Government-affiliated forces (military and non-military): 180

    • ▪️ Non-protesters/civilians: 35

  • Fatalities under review: 9,049

  • Severely injured: 5,811

  • Total arrests: 26,015

  • Broadcast of forced confessions (documented cases): 167

Given the severe communication restrictions, the prevailing security atmosphere, and the lack of free access to information, the actual figures may be higher than those listed above. The statistics presented here are based solely on individual-based reports received and cases that could be verified.

Summary of the Twenty-Third Day

The twenty-third day of protests passed amid the continued internet blackout and intensified information control on one hand, and the persistence of arrests and a pervasive security atmosphere on the other. At the international level, the cancellation of Abbas Araghchi’s invitation to Davos emerged as a notable sign of increased political pressure. Domestically, government officials, combining “promises of leniency” with “threats of decisive punishment,” reiterated their commitment to a security-driven approach in confronting the protests.