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Iran Blames Foreign Powers as 30 Security Forces Die in Isfahan Riots

The governor of Isfahan province confirmed that 30 security personnel were killed during what officials describe as foreign-backed riots, with funeral processions scheduled. The violence included attacks that set 10 mosques on fire in Isfahan and resulted in casualties among security forces in other provinces like Fars. Iranian authorities allege that foreign-linked operatives exploited public protests over economic hardships, which they blame on U.S. sanctions, to carry out sabotage and armed attacks. Top officials, including Ayatollah Khamenei, have vowed not to tolerate the violence, linking it to American and Israeli encouragement while announcing the dismantling of several armed cells.

Key Points: Iran: 30 Security Personnel Killed in Foreign-Backed Unrest

  • 30 security personnel killed in Isfahan
  • 10 mosques set on fire
  • Foreign-linked agents blamed for violence
  • US sanctions cited as economic trigger
  • Nationwide rallies planned to condemn attacks
3 min read

Iran: Isfahan Governor confirms 30 security personnel killed in foreign-backed riots

Isfahan governor confirms 30 security forces dead in riots, blames foreign-linked agents. Attacks on mosques and aid workers reported nationwide.

"The Islamic Republic will not back down against vandals - Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei"

Isfahan, January 11

Isfahan Governor Ali Ahmadi confirmed that 30 security personnel lost their lives in what he described as foreign-backed unrest in the province, according to Iranian state broadcaster Press TV.

Addressing the issue on Sunday, Ahmadi stated that funeral processions for the slain personnel are scheduled to take place on Monday.

He also said that civilian casualties included a two-month-old infant during the violence.

Press TV reported that the riots resulted in extensive destruction, with 10 mosques in Isfahan set on fire.

In the adjacent province of Fars, at least 12 security personnel were also killed during the riots, as quoted by Press TV from Ibrahim Bayani, Director General of the provincial Martyrs' Foundation department.

Separately, Police Special Units Commander General Masoud Modaqq said on Sunday that eight members of his unit were killed during the unrest, Press TV reported.

Modaqq said the funerals for personnel under his command will be held Monday and will align with a nationwide rally planned to condemn armed attacks and acts of terrorism by what were described as foreign-linked agents, who allegedly diverted public protests initially triggered by economic grievances.

The report noted that the total number of casualties, including security personnel and civilians, has not yet been officially announced.

Multiple attacks targeting medical and aid facilities were also reported in various parts of the country.

Press TV stated that in Iran's northern province of Gilan, one voluntary Red Crescent staff member was killed in such an attack, while five other Red Crescent workers were injured in separate incidents elsewhere.

Iranian officials reiterated that protests over economic hardships are legitimate and would be addressed, but stressed that violence and sabotage will not be permitted.

Authorities alleged that rioters took advantage of public anger linked to rising costs of living and the sharp fall of the rial, blaming the situation on unilateral US sanctions aimed at Iran's central bank and oil exports.

Security and judicial officials further announced that several armed terror cells had been dismantled and individuals described as foreign-linked operatives had been arrested.

Iranian officials also claimed that American and Israeli figures encouraged the violence, pointing to warnings by United States President Donald Trump that Washington could attack Iran if "peaceful protesters" were harmed, along with remarks by former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo suggesting Israeli intelligence involvement and separatist plots.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei said on Friday that the Islamic Republic "will not back down against vandals" and stressed that those acting as foreign mercenaries will not be tolerated.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

S
Sarah B
This is a complex situation. While the government blames foreign agents, the report itself says protests began with legitimate economic grievances. Burning mosques and attacking medical workers is absolutely wrong, but so is ignoring the people's suffering. The US sanctions have undoubtedly made life very hard for ordinary Iranians.
V
Vikram M
The pattern is familiar. External powers exploiting internal discontent to destabilize a nation. We've seen similar tactics in our own neighborhood. My sympathies are with the families of the security personnel and civilians killed. No country should have to deal with such violence on its soil.
P
Priya S
The loss of a baby is just unbearable. As a mother, this news hits hard. Whatever the politics, violence that claims innocent lives, especially children, can never be justified. The world needs to focus on humanitarian aid and dialogue, not more sanctions and threats.
R
Rohit P
Respectfully, while foreign interference is a real threat, governments must also look inward. When people are struggling to make ends meet, frustration boils over. The Iranian leadership acknowledging the economic protests as "legitimate" is a start, but actions speak louder. Hope they address the root causes.
K
Karthik V
A very sad situation all around. Attacking places of worship and aid workers shows a complete breakdown of humanity. Iran is a great civilization with wonderful people. They deserve peace and prosperity, free from both internal violence and external pressure. The region doesn't need another crisis.

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