Iran: Increased security likely in Zahedan and other major cities in Sistan va Baluchestan through early October amid ongoing civil unrest

Event

Iranian authorities have reportedly deployed an increased security presence in Zahedan in Sistan va Baluchestan Province as of Sept. 29. Reports indicate that security forces have erected dozens of security checkpoints across the city. Security personnel have also reportedly deployed tear gas and live ammunition against protesters; unconfirmed reports indicate at least 19 people have been wounded.

Additional protests are likely to occur over the coming days in the province's other major cities, such as Saravan. Authorities are likely to disrupt mobile communications if the protests become protracted. Clashes between security forces and protesters remain probable. Transport and business disruptions are likely near all protest sites.

Context

Sistan va Baluchestan is one of Iran's most restive provinces. The province is also Iran's poorest region whose residents, who are Sunni and Balochi, regularly allege that authorities have regularly engaged in systematic discrimination, police repression, and forced resettlement. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) has been prone to deploy lethal force against residents in the province following bouts of civil unrest.

Meanwhile, multiple resistance and separatist groups operate in the region, including Jundallah, Harakat Ansar Iran, Jaish ul-Adl, and Ansar Al-Furqan. These groups have occasionally launched attacks against IRGC checkpoints.

Advice

Avoid all large gatherings and areas where security forces have deployed. Plan for ground transport disruptions and allow extra time to reach destinations in major cities, especially near likely protest locations such as public squares and government buildings. Heed instructions from authorities. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.