Deadly Crackdown: Referee and Student Among Hundreds Killed in Iran Protests

A football referee and a student are among the hundreds of people killed in Iran’s ongoing anti-government protests. Coach Amir Mohammad Koohkan, 26, was shot by live ammunition during protests in Neyriz, while student Rubina Aminian, 23, was killed in Tehran. According to Iran Human Rights, Aminian was shot in the head while participating in a protest.

The death toll has risen to at least 646, with many more feared dead. The protests, sparked by economic hardship and broader grievances against the ruling establishment, have seen widespread violence and arrests. According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, over 10,700 people have been detained since the demonstrations began.

The Iranian government has blamed foreign enemies, particularly the US and Israel, for the unrest. However, protesters have been chanting slogans against the entire clerical leadership and Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. According to BBC News, mourners at a funeral in Tehran chanted “death to Khamenei”.

The international community has condemned the violence, with US President Donald Trump threatening military action if security forces continue to fire on protesters. Trump has also announced a 25% tariff on countries trading with Iran.

The situation remains volatile, with reports of internet shutdowns and communication blockages making it difficult to verify the scale of the unrest. According to Reuters, the Iranian judiciary has vowed to punish protesters swiftly and harshly.

Source: BBC News, The Economic Times

Author: Korkor Anumu