Protests in Iran: Foreign Minister announces official figures

Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Aragchi announced that the death toll during the mass protests in the country has reached 3,117. According to him, 2,427 of the victims were civilians and security forces, and another 690 were classified as "terrorists."

Aragchi noted that large-scale destruction occurred during the unrest. In particular, 305 ambulances and buses, 24 gas stations, 700 shops, 300 private houses, 750 banks, 414 government institutions, 749 police stations, and 120 Basij centers were damaged.

It was also noted that 200 schools, 350 mosques, 15 libraries, 2 Armenian churches, 253 bus stops, 600 ATMs, and 800 private cars were destroyed.

It was reported that the mass protests began at the end of December due to dissatisfaction with the economic situation in the country. Iranian officials blame the United States and Israel for organizing these unrest. In turn, US President Donald Trump stated that if the demonstrations are sharply suppressed, a strike could be launched against the republic.