Iran orders impartial probe into protest deaths as president seeks transparency

2026-02-22 - 20:52

Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian has ordered a "comprehensive and impartial investigation" into incidents that occurred during anti-government protests in January, state news agency IRNA reported Sunday. Speaking at a meeting of the Coordination Council of Presidential Deputies, Pezeshkian stressed "transparency and the provision of accurate information," announcing instructions for a neutral probe into all aspects of the unrest. Call for Evidence The president called on individuals or groups possessing relevant documents or data to submit them to help clarify the matter. "If any wrongdoing is proven, it would be addressed in accordance with the law," he said. Pezeshkian emphasized the importance of university discussions and engaging experts to explain events and convince public opinion. Official Casualty Report Earlier this month, the presidential office released a report listing 2,986 people killed during protests that erupted in late 2025 over deteriorating economic and living conditions, out of 3,117 total recorded deaths. The fatalities included both civilians and security forces members. The protests lasted approximately two weeks. Allegations of Foreign Meddling Iranian authorities have acknowledged public discontent but accused the US and Israel of seeking to exploit unrest through sanctions and pressure to incite instability, justifying foreign interference and regime change. The investigation order represents an effort to address domestic accountability while countering external narratives.