Rights groups condemn Iran's 'deadly crackdown' on protesters

Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch issued a joint statement on Thursday condemning Iran's crackdown on protesters since December 28, saying security forces have used unlawful force, firearms, and mass arbitrary arrests to disperse, intimidate, and punish largely peaceful demonstrators.

The rights groups said security forces, including Iran's Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and police force known as FARAJA, have unlawfully used rifles, shotguns loaded with metal pellets, water cannons, tear gas, and beatings.

According to the groups, the crackdown has resulted in at least 28 protester deaths and bystanders, including children, in 13 cities across eight provinces between December 28 and January 3, 2026.