More than 2,000 people have been detained amid ongoing nationwide protests in Iran, according to activists, as the country’s judiciary announced plans to fast-track the prosecution of demonstrators.
The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reported on Wednesday that at least 34 protesters have been killed in clashes with security forces since the unrest began over a week ago. The group also said two members of the security forces had lost their lives during the disturbances.
By Wednesday, the 10th day of protests and strikes demonstrations had been recorded in about 285 locations across the country, HRANA said.
The reported mass arrests came as Iran’s judiciary confirmed it would accelerate legal proceedings against those involved in the protests. According to the judiciary’s news portal, Mizan, Chief Justice Gholam-Hossein Mohseni Ejei said special judicial chambers staffed with “experienced judges” had been established to handle protest-related cases swiftly and comprehensively.
Judicial employees have also been instructed to be present on the streets where necessary to observe protests firsthand and gather direct information, the report said.
The protests were initially triggered by turmoil in Iran’s foreign exchange market, which led angry traders in Tehran to stage street demonstrations. The unrest quickly escalated into broader political protests, which authorities have sought to suppress using force.
The most intense demonstrations have been reported in Iran’s western provinces. While participation reportedly declined slightly over the past two days compared to the weekend, the Critical Threats Project (CTP) noted that protests continued in major cities on Wednesday, with demonstrators voicing opposition to the government and Iran’s authoritarian system of rule.
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