Iranian security forces have carried out thousands of arrests nationwide following the suppression of the most violent unrest the country has seen in decades, according to activists, lawyers, and officials familiar with the situation. Plainclothes units have conducted coordinated raids across cities and towns, detaining people accused of involvement in recent protests as well as individuals previously arrested during earlier demonstrations. Sources inside Iran said many detainees were taken from their homes during night operations and transferred to undisclosed locations. The campaign follows protests that erupted over economic hardship and rapidly expanded into broader calls against the ruling clerical establishment. Authorities cut internet access and deployed overwhelming force to contain the unrest, which rights groups say resulted in thousands of deaths. Officials have blamed foreign backed armed groups for instigating the violence.
Activists and witnesses said the arrests appear designed to prevent any renewed protests creating a climate of fear. Security checkpoints have increased in urban areas, and families report little or no information about where detained relatives are being held. Several sources said unofficial detention sites are being used, including warehouses and improvised facilities, with limited access to legal representation. Lawyers reported a surge in families seeking help for missing relatives, including minors. Medical professionals said wounded protesters were removed from hospitals security forces, while some doctors were warned against treating injured demonstrators. The uncertainty surrounding detainees’ whereabouts has intensified anxiety among families, many of whom fear retaliation if they speak publicly.
Two Iranian officials confirmed that the security dragnet has expanded in recent days, with authorities moving quickly to process cases through the judiciary. Human rights organisations have warned that detainees face a high risk of torture and unfair trials, particularly those accused of sabotage or armed activity. Officials have indicated that some charges could carry the death penalty. The crackdown comes as Iran faces mounting external pressure, including renewed threats from the United States tied to nuclear negotiations. Analysts say the scale of the arrests reflects deep concern within the leadership about future unrest, especially given Iran’s young population and persistent economic strain. Despite the restoration of order, activists warn that continued repression may fuel further instability rather than prevent it.
