16 Dec 2019 | 03:51 PM UTC
Iran: Reports of over 300 dead amid nationwide protests December 16 /update 10
Human rights group estimates 300 killed in government crackdown amid nationwide protests as of December 16; heightened security presence likely to continue
Event
Human rights groups Amnesty International has released a new estimate of 304 protesters killed in nationwide anti-government protests on Monday, December 16. The organization highlights a three-day crackdown that took place in mid-November that was particularly deadly. It also states that Basij militia and Revolutionary Guard members were involved in the killings.
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.
The US Department of State announced on December 5, that it believes Iranian security forces have killed at least 1000 protesters amid a nationwide movement. The US figure remains unconfirmed by other organizations
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.
