Brief by Shorts91 Newsdesk / 01:13pm on 18 Jan 2026,Sunday International
An Iranian official said authorities have verified at least 5,000 deaths in nationwide protests that erupted on December 28, 2025, initially over economic hardship and quickly turning into broad anti‑government demonstrations. The figure includes around 500 security personnel, with some of the deadliest clashes in Kurdish‑majority northwest regions, the official told Reuters, blaming “terrorists and armed rioters” for targeting innocent civilians. The government has accused foreign forces and armed groups of fuelling the unrest. Human rights groups have reported thousands more deaths and over 24,000 arrests, while tensions remain high despite a heavy security crackdown and limited internet access. (PC: India Today)
