Iran unrest enters 13th day amid crackdown, international concern

New Delhi, Jan 10: Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has described the ongoing anti-government protests as the work of troublemakers and accused the United States of exploiting the unrest. Iran has sent a letter to the United Nations Security Council blaming Washington for turning the protests into violent and destabilising acts, reports the BBC. The protests, now in their 13th day, began over economic grievances but have grown into the largest demonstrations in years, with slogans calling for an end to the Islamic Republic. Human rights groups say at least 48 protesters and 14 security personnel have been killed so far, while more than 2,200 people have been arrested. Another rights group has put the death toll even higher, including several children.

A near-total internet blackout has been imposed nationwide, restricting the flow of information.

Iranian authorities have hardened their stance, with security and judicial bodies issuing warnings of decisive legal action against protesters, whom they have labelled as vandals and threats to national security. The intelligence wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps has said it will continue operations to defeat what it calls hostile plans. The United States has warned Iran of serious consequences over the violence, while denying any intention of deploying troops. Iran’s UN ambassador has accused Washington of interfering in Iran’s internal affairs through threats and incitement. The United Nations said it is disturbed by the loss of life and stressed the right of people to protest peacefully. Protests have been reported across the country, including in Tehran, Isfahan and Zahedan. With internet access restricted, residents in some cities have reported panic buying and fears of further escalation in the days ahead.