Tehran Jan 13 (V7N) — Nearly 2,000 people, including members of the security forces, have been killed during ongoing anti-government protests in Iran, an Iranian official confirmed to Reuters on Tuesday (January 13).

The official blamed what he described as “terrorist elements” for the deaths of both protesters and security personnel, though no detailed breakdown of casualties was provided.

Earlier, international human rights organizations estimated the death toll at several hundred and reported that thousands of people have been arrested since the unrest began.

Video footage reviewed by Reuters from overnight clashes last week showed gunfire, burning vehicles and damaged buildings in several locations. Following days of nationwide internet shutdowns, connectivity was largely restored on Monday, revealing the scale of destruction caused by the protests.

Sources said hospitals across the country are overcrowded with injured individuals, while Iranian security forces have continued raids and operations nationwide in an effort to suppress the unrest.

Meanwhile, the United States has indicated that military action against Iran is under consideration, though diplomacy remains the preferred option.

White House spokeswoman Carolyn Levitt said President Donald Trump has “all options on the table,” including air strikes, but emphasized that negotiations are the administration’s first choice.

She added that Washington believes there is a significant gap between Iran’s public statements and its private communications, and that President Trump is carefully reviewing messages conveyed through diplomatic channels.

END/SMA/AJ