Iran Confirms Over 5,000 Deaths in Protests Amid Conflicting Toll Reports

Iranian authorities have verified at least 5,000 deaths, including around 500 security personnel, amid ongoing protests that began over economic issues and escalated into calls against the regime. The government attributes violence to armed rioters and foreign support, particularly from Israel and the US. Meanwhile, rights groups report lower death tolls, with figures around 3,300 confirmed and thousands more under review. Iran's Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei acknowledged thousands of deaths, describing some killings as inhuman and blaming foreign interference.