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

Event

Iranian authorities have reportedly deployed an increased security presence in Zahedan in Sistan va Baluchestan Province as of Jan. 21. Reports indicate that security forces have erected dozens of security checkpoints across the city. Security personnel has also blocked all entry and exit points to Zahedan. All individuals who enter or leave the city are questioned, and their phones are searched.

The heightened security measures come amid ongoing protests in the city. Thousands of people appear to have participated in anti-government demonstrations on Jan. 21. Additional protests remain likely over the coming days in the province's other major cities, such as Saravan and Iranshahr. Authorities could disrupt mobile communications and disrupt internet services if the protests become protracted. Clashes between security forces and protesters remain likely. Transport and business disruptions remain 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) have been prone to deploy lethal force against residents in the province following bouts of civil unrest. During a protest march on Sept. 30 over the alleged rape of a local woman by security forces, authorities apparently killed 66 people and wounded dozens of others.

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. On Dec. 19, at least four security forces were killed following clashes with suspected Balochi rebels in Saravan.

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 security forces' instructions. Maintain contact with your diplomatic mission.