The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, Volker Türk, has called for the deaths of protesters in Iran to be investigated in an independent and transparent manner.
He expressed deep concern over the internet shutdowns in Iran and stated he is deeply troubled by reports of violence during widespread protests across the country. According to Türk, those responsible for violations must be held accountable under international standards.
The protests in Iran, which began in late December 2025, were triggered by a severe economic crisis, hyperinflation, the collapse of the rial, and energy shortages, spreading to dozens of cities including Tehran.
Protesters have chanted slogans such as “Death to the dictator” and “Death to Khamenei”.
Iranian authorities have imposed complete internet and phone blackouts to hinder protest coordination. Security forces have reportedly used live ammunition, causing dozens of deaths. According to human rights organizations, at least 45 people have been killed since late December, including children, and thousands more have been arrested.
Meanwhile, Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi accused the United States and Israel of instigating and funding the protests, attempting to turn them from peaceful to violent and divisive. He also said the likelihood of foreign military intervention in Iran is low, noting that previous attempts had failed.
Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei has labeled the protesters “vandals” and promised that the regime will not retreat, blaming foreign actors.
The situation remains highly tense, with protests continuing despite heavy crackdowns and growing international attention.
