Protests in Iran have spread to at least 78 cities across 26 provinces, with the death toll rising to 19 after security forces opened fire on demonstrators, according to HRANA, a human rights-focused news agency.
In a report published on Sunday, HRANA said more than 50 protesters have been wounded by gunfire and at least 990 people have been arrested by Iranian security forces.
Based on updated and verified data, HRANA said the protests have continued to expand despite heightened security measures and an increased deployment of police and security forces in several areas.
The agency said at least 222 locations across Iran have witnessed protests, street demonstrations or labour strikes over the past eight days. Protest activity has also been reported at 17 universities, involving student demonstrators.
The protests, driven by a mix of economic, political and civil demands, entered their ninth day on Monday and have been met with a broad crackdown by forces of the Islamic Republic.
According to HRANA, police and security forces have employed a range of tactics to suppress the demonstrations, including violent confrontations, live fire, tear gas and mass arrests, in an effort to prevent the unrest from spreading further.
