27 Nov 2019 | 10:15 AM UTC
Iran: Reports of arson amid nationwide protests November 27 /update 8
Government reports many arson incidents amid nationwide protests November 27; protests expected to continue
Event
The Interior Ministry announced on Wednesday, November 27, that approximately 731 banks and 140 government offices have been burned in recent protests that have taken place across the nation. In addition, over 50 security bases and 70 gas stations have also been affected. The report also indicated that up to 200,000 people participated in nationwide protests to date.
On Tuesday, November 26, the human rights group Amnesty International announced it estimates that at least 143 demonstrators have been killed across the country in nationwide protests, and the Centre for Human Rights in Iran has estimated that at least 4000 have been detained. The Iranian government has since rejected these figures.
A heightened security presence, continued nationwide protests, and clashes between demonstrators and security forces are likely throughout Iran over the coming several days. Disruptions to transportation and business are to be anticipated in areas affected by demonstrations.
Context
On November 14, the Iranian government announced a fuel price hike that sparked nationwide protests on November 15. Authorities began limiting access to the internet on November 16 but has since been largely restored.
Advice
Individuals in Iran are advised to monitor developments, avoid all protests due to the risk of violence, budget extra time to reach their destinations if traveling through areas affected by demonstrations, prepare for associated disruptions to transportation and business, and adhere to instructions issued by the local authorities and their home governments.
