Iran: Genocide Allegations and 16,500 Deaths Amid Digital Blackout

Doctors in Iran allege that the suppression of anti-government protests has led to at least 16,500 deaths under a digital blackout. The allegations include widespread use of military weapons, severe injuries, and obstruction of access to medical care.

According to a report by the Sunday Times, Professor Amir Parasta, an Iranian-German ophthalmic surgeon, stated that security forces are using military-grade weapons, causing injuries from bullets and shrapnel to the head, neck, and chest.

It is reported that approximately 330,000 to 360,000 people have been injured, including children and pregnant women. A hospital in Tehran reported 7,000 eye injuries.

Iranian authorities imposed a near-total internet blackout on January 8, cutting the country off from the outside world for over 8 days. Parasta described the situation as "genocide under the cover of digital darkness."

Testimonies report bodies piled up in morgues and obstacles to blood transfusions for the injured.