Rights Group Claims Nearly 6,000 Killed in Iran Protests Amid Internet Shutdown

A U.S.-based human rights organization has reported that nearly 6,000 people have been killed during recent protests in Iran, warning that the actual death toll could be significantly higher. The group said it is currently reviewing thousands of additional reports.

The protests began in late December over economic grievances and quickly evolved into nationwide anti-government demonstrations. Rights groups accuse Iranian security forces of using excessive force to suppress protesters.

Extended internet shutdowns have made it difficult to verify casualty figures, prompting concerns that the full scale of the crackdown remains hidden from the international community.