An Iranian official has reported that at least 5,000 people have been killed in the nationwide anti-government protests that began on December 28, 2025. This figure, cited by Reuters and numerous other news outlets, includes approximately 500 security personnel. The protests, initially sparked by economic hardship, quickly escalated into widespread demonstrations demanding an end to clerical rule, marking the deadliest unrest in Iran since the 1979 Islamic revolution. Compounding the grave situation, the Iranian judiciary has hinted that executions may be carried out against individuals detained during the protests. This follows earlier warnings from human rights organizations, such as Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO), about the serious risk of mass executions after swift trials. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has publicly acknowledged "several thousand" deaths, blaming foreign entities like the U.S. and Israel for orchestrating the violence. However, independent human rights groups present significantly higher casualty figures. Iran Human Rights (IHRNGO) reported at least 3,428 protester deaths as of January 14, 2026, noting that the total could be much higher due to severe information restrictions. Other reports, including those citing a coalition of 30 NGOs, suggest over 12,000 protesters killed, with some estimates reaching as high as 20,000. Internet blackouts have been widely implemented, severely complicating efforts to independently verify the scale of the crackdown and casualties. The international community remains highly concerned about the escalating repression and human rights violations in Iran.