Staff at three hospitals in Iran have recounted to the BBC their harrowing experiences as they cope with an influx of dead and injured protestors amid ongoing anti-government demonstrations. A medic from a Tehran hospital reported instances of 'direct shots to the heads and hearts of young people', highlighting the brutal nature of the violence.
As protests surged since their inception over two weeks ago, claims surfaced of gunshot wounds inflicted by both live ammunition and pellets, leaving medical facilities in crisis mode with emergency services stretched to their limits. Reports indicate that around 38 individuals died before reaching hospitals, with many young victims aged between 20 and 25 facing deadly injuries.
International reactions to the situation are intensifying, with the U.S. administration warning Iran of military consequences if protestors continue to be killed in the street. In a stark contrast, the Iranian government accused the U.S. of inciting violence and branded peaceful protests as destructive acts.
The death toll continues to rise, with many injuries reported across more than 100 cities and provinces in Iran as protests fueled by economic discontent and demands for freedom resonate with demonstrators of all ages, including participation from younger generations encouraging older citizens to join the demonstrations.
Despite Iran's security forces claiming no fatalities occurred during the protests in Tehran, eyewitnesses depict widespread rioting, with multiple buildings set ablaze. As calls for freedom and reform echo louder across the nation, the Iranian regime is stepping up its rhetoric against what it labels as 'armed vandals'.
This unrest follows a year marked by massive protests, demonstrating a wider pattern of civil disobedience fueled by frustrations over economic conditions, with hundreds of protestors believed to have died in previous uprisings. As the situation develops, the resilience of Iranian citizens continues to be tested as they face violence and government repression.
