Iran protests intensify amid deadly clashes nationwide
Violent confrontations between anti-government demonstrators and security forces were reported in several parts of Iran on Wednesday, as protests linked to the country’s deepening economic crisis entered their eleventh consecutive day. Iran’s semi-official Fars news agency reported that two police officers were shot and killed in the south-western town of Lordegan during clashes involving armed individuals. Social media footage from various cities showed tense standoffs, with sounds of gunfire, as security forces attempted to disperse crowds. Videos circulating online depicted police and security units using firearms and tear gas against protesters, while some demonstrators responded by throwing stones. The unrest has expanded rapidly across the country. According to the US-based Human Rights Activist News Agency (HRANA), demonstrations have taken place in 111 cities and towns across all 31 provinces. HRANA estimates that at least 34 protesters and four members of […]