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Iran Death Toll Dispute Widens as Opposition Cites 12,000 Dead, Official Says 2,000

An extended communications shutdown has obscured independent verification of casualties.

Overview

  • Opposition-linked outlet Iran International reports at least 12,000 people killed, citing internal security tallies and cross-checked testimony.
  • The report alleges coordinated operations by IRGC and Basij units, largely on January 8–9, under an authorization to use live ammunition from the Supreme National Security Council.
  • It further claims the crackdown followed directives from Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with awareness across senior political bodies.
  • An unnamed Iranian official told Reuters the death toll is around 2,000 and blamed “terrorists,” while rights groups have confirmed several hundred deaths so far.
  • International calls reportedly resumed on Tuesday after a four-day nationwide blackout, but access restrictions continue to hamper confirmation of events.