Protests continued across Iran for a seventh day and night on Saturday, with demonstrations reported in scores of cities and a sharp rise in fatalities marking one of the most violent phases of the unrest so far.
Videos and eyewitness accounts received by Iran International showed security forces opening fire on protesters in several locations, most notably in Malekshahi, a city in Ilam province, where state-linked media confirmed multiple deaths following clashes.
Based on information shared with Iran International, during protests in Malekshahi at least five protesters were killed by direct fire from security forces, and around 30 others were wounded.
Footage from the city showed wounded protesters and scenes of chaos after live ammunition was used.
Overall, at least 15 protesters and one member of the security forces have been reported killed during seven days of demonstrations, according to rights group HRANA.
Iran International was able to confirm that dozens more were wounded by live fire or pellet guns, while arrests were reported across several provinces.
The unrest, initially driven by economic grievances, has increasingly taken on a political character, with protesters chanting slogans against clerical rule and the Supreme Leader, as well as calling for a return of monarchy.
Demonstrations were reported in major cities as well as smaller provincial centers, despite heavy security deployments and warnings from authorities.
In his first public remarks since the protests began, Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei described participants as “rioters” and called for their suppression, signaling a hardening official stance as the unrest entered its second week.
