Activists have reported that at least 6 126 people have been killed in Iran’s nationwide crackdown on protests, marking one of the deadliest episodes of unrest in the country in decades, according to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA). The figure comes amid ongoing demonstrations and an extensive government response that has included arrests and widespread internet shutdowns. 
HRANA said the deaths include at least 5 777 protesters, 214 government-affiliated forces, 86 children and 49 civilians who were not demonstrating, highlighting the broad toll of the crackdown. The agency also reported more than 41 800 arrests as authorities continued efforts to suppress dissent. 
Iran’s government has disputed the higher toll and instead released a much lower figure of 3 117 deaths, stating that the casualties include both civilians and security personnel, and describing some of those killed as “terrorists.” Independent verification of the death toll remains difficult due to communication restrictions and the government’s limited transparency. 
The protests began on December 28, 2025 in response to a sharp fall in the value of the Iranian currency and quickly spread across the country, evolving into broader demonstrations against economic hardship and governance. The violent response from security forces has drawn widespread international condemnation, with calls for restraint and accountability from human rights groups and world leaders.
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