06 Dec 2019 | 10:05 AM UTC
Iran: US government estimates 1000 protesters killed in nationwide protests December 5 /update 9
The US Department of State announces it believes 1000 protesters have killed amid nationwide protests December 5; protests likely to continue
Event
The US Department of State announced on Thursday, 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 and is significantly higher than that which Human Rights Watch has estimated.
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.
On 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.
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.
