Unrest in Iran: 5,000 Dead in Spiraling Protests

Iranian authorities report over 5,000 deaths amid protests, blaming 'terrorists' and foreign backing. The unrest is notably intense in Kurdish regions, where separatist activity is high. Reports vary, with HRANA citing lower death counts. Iranian officials criticize external influences, including Israel, for exacerbating tensions.

Iranian officials have reported a staggering death toll of over 5,000 in the protests sweeping the country, attributing the violence to 'terrorists and armed rioters' allegedly supported by foreign adversaries. Among the deceased are approximately 500 security personnel, authorities said on Sunday.

Particularly affected areas include the Kurdish regions of northwest Iran, known for separatist movements and intense clashes in periods of unrest. Despite these violent confrontations, the official death toll is not projected to see a significant increase, according to sources who, due to the sensitivity of the matter, prefer to remain anonymous.

The U.S.-based HRANA rights group presents a conflicting report, citing a lower number of fatalities but acknowledging over 24,000 arrests. They suggest ongoing foreign provocations, particularly from Israel, may have fueled the escalating disorder.

(With inputs from agencies.)