The ongoing protests in Iran have escalated into a tragic display of state violence, with security forces employing an alarming array of weaponry against demonstrators. Following an analysis of extensive video and photographic evidence, it is clear that machine guns, sniper rifles, and even machetes have been wielded against civilians, resulting in a significant death toll across the nation. The intensity and brutality of this crackdown mark a dark chapter in Iran’s recent history, drawing condemnation from human rights observers and escalating international concern.
The Arsenal of Oppression
A detailed investigation by BBC Persian has revealed the extensive use of lethal weaponry by Iranian security forces amid protests triggered by economic grievances. Reports indicate that these protests, which have spread to over 200 cities, have resulted in thousands of fatalities, though precise figures remain uncertain. Eyewitness accounts, coupled with corroborating reports from human rights organisations, highlight a level of violence unprecedented in Iran.
Payam Akhavan, a former UN prosecutor, described the events as “the largest mass killing in contemporary Iranian history and one of the largest globally.” In stark contrast, the Iranian government has attributed these casualties to “rioters and terrorists,” deflecting responsibility for the violence inflicted on its citizens.
Machine Guns and Assault Weapons
The analysis shows that security forces have deployed various types of firearms, including machine guns, sniper rifles, and shotguns. Videos from cities like Tehran and Yazdanshahr depict heavy machine guns mounted on military vehicles being used for crowd control. These weapons—specifically the DShKM model—are confirmed to be in the hands of security personnel, as verified by independent sources.
In one particularly chilling instance, footage captured during the protests in Yazdanshahr demonstrates sustained machine-gun fire directed at crowds, underscoring the lethal intent of the authorities. The presence of AK-47 assault rifles has also been documented, with spent cartridges found at protest sites, further evidencing the military-grade arsenal employed against civilians.
Sniper Operations
Witness testimonies and video evidence indicate the use of sniper rifles, including the Dragunov, during the protests. In Mashhad, a verified video shows armed individuals in military attire positioned on rooftops, suggesting a calculated strategy to target protesters from above. Accounts from families of victims confirm that snipers have killed demonstrators, with one case detailing a fatal headshot delivered in front of a child. The psychological impact of such tactics is profound, as the fear of unseen threats can lead to mass panic among untrained civilians.
The Role of Less Conventional Weapons
In addition to firearms, security forces have resorted to less conventional weapons, including batons, knives, and machetes. Testimonies from demonstrators recount brutal attacks with these weapons, leaving many injured. One video depicts a plainclothes officer attacking a female protester with a machete, while other reports detail fatalities resulting from beatings following gunshots. The indiscriminate nature of this violence raises serious concerns about the safety and rights of citizens in Iran.
Why it Matters
The violence witnessed in Iran not only represents a severe violation of human rights but also poses a significant challenge to international norms regarding the treatment of civilians during civil unrest. As the Iranian government continues its brutal crackdown, the global community faces a moral imperative to respond. The scale of the violence and the use of advanced weaponry against unarmed protesters underscore a regime willing to employ extreme measures to maintain power. The implications of this situation extend beyond Iran, affecting regional stability and prompting discussions about accountability and intervention in the face of state-sponsored brutality.
