Iran says 3,117 died in protests in first official toll. Activists fear it’s much higher

South China Morning PostCenter-RightEN 2 min read 100% complete by Associated PressJanuary 22, 2026 at 04:00 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Iran has announced that 3,117 people died during recent nationwide protests, marking the first official death toll released by the government. According to state television, 2,427 of those killed were civilians and security forces. This figure is significantly lower than estimates from human rights groups, such as the Human Rights Activists News Agency, which claims at least 4,902 deaths. Independent verification of the death toll is difficult due to restricted internet access and limitations on journalists within Iran. The Iranian government attributes the protests to "rioters" influenced by the US and Israel. Meanwhile, Iran threatened retaliation against the US amid rising tensions, as a US aircraft carrier group moved towards the Middle East.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Israel 30% Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs 30% Nicolas Maduro (Maduro) 30% World Economic Forum 40% Davos 40% Middle East 40% Tehran 50% Islamic Revolution 50% Human Rights Activists News Agency 60% Abbas Araghchi ×270% United States ×370% Iran ×790%

Keywords

iran protests 100% death toll 90% government crackdown 80% human rights 70% islamic revolution 60% united states 50% security forces 50% abbas araghchi 40% state television 40%