Iran has released its first official death toll from the recent nationwide protests, reporting that 3,117 people were killed during demonstrations that began in late December amid widespread unrest over economic hardship and political grievances, state media said on Wednesday. The figure—revealed by the Foundation of Martyrs and Veterans Affairs and broadcast on state TV—includes both civilians and members of security forces, many of whom Tehran has labeled “martyrs.” Authorities denounced the protests as “foreign-backed terrorism,” blaming external forces for instigating violence and unrest.

Rights groups and independent monitors, however, have warned that the true human cost could be significantly higher, citing obstacles to accurate reporting due to an ongoing internet blackout and restricted access for independent observers. Activists say thousands more may have been killed, and human rights organisations continue to call for greater transparency and global scrutiny of the crackdown.