Residents of Tehran describe a climate of fear and control as security forces patrol the city, enforcing strict measures following a violent crackdown on protesters. The presence of armed forces, including Basij units, and restrictions on movement create a feeling of virtual martial law.
Residents of Tehran , Iran ’s capital, report a state of virtual martial law following a brutal crackdown on protesters last week. Radio Free Europe/Radio Liberty (RFE/RL) received reports on Monday indicating a pervasive security presence patrolling largely deserted streets, creating an atmosphere of fear and control. Sources detailed the implementation of strict measures, including arbitrary stops of vehicles by armed forces personnel.
These forces are conducting thorough searches of cars and personal belongings, including compulsory examination of mobile phones. Citizens are reportedly being forced to unlock their devices, with security forces actively scrutinizing social media activity and photo galleries for evidence of participation in the protests. This relentless surveillance has significantly curtailed public life, fostering a climate of apprehension.\The streets of Tehran are now dominated by military and paramilitary units, including the notorious Basij oppression squads. Plainclothes police operatives are also actively involved, reportedly conducting raids on residential buildings in search of suspected protesters. Witnesses have recounted how Basij thugs are using motorcycles to patrol the streets, employing bullhorns to broadcast threats such as “Don’t come out! We’ll shoot you!” to instill fear among residents. Furthermore, police have been ordering civilians to remain away from their windows, presumably to prevent them from engaging in anti-regime protest slogans from the safety of their homes. This widespread intimidation has effectively coerced most residents to observe a self-imposed curfew, remaining indoors during nighttime hours. Kaveh Kermanshahi, an activist with the Kurdistan Human Rights Network, shared with RFE/RL that the conspicuous presence of military and security forces throughout these cities has prompted discussions about a de facto military rule. While ordinary citizens are not strictly prohibited from moving around, their every action is subject to intense surveillance and control by the authorities. Reports from several cities outside of Tehran, particularly in western Iran, also describe the deployment of heavily-armed security forces.\The regime's crackdown extends beyond Tehran, with cities across Iran experiencing a similar escalation of security measures. There are reports that the regime has bolstered its forces by employing mercenaries from Iraq, Syria, and Afghanistan. The employment of these individuals is generating concern among the population. The regime is also taking additional steps to control any potential gathering of people, as universities in Tehran remain closed to prevent student gatherings. In addition, a large number of shops and shopping centers are shuttered. Public gatherings are being dispersed within minutes. An Iranian citizen, who was able to bypass the regime’s internet blackout, expressed the profound sense of captivity, stating, “We are hostages inside our own country. We don’t know what is happening in the next street, let alone the next city.” The aftermath of the crackdown has been devastating, with reports suggesting that at least 5,000 people were killed during the protests. This figure aligns with reports from some human rights organizations. Some organizations have claimed that the death toll is much higher, which raises concerns that the regime may execute many of the thousands of protesters it has arrested
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