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Four killed, hundreds arrested in Iran protests

By Bernard Hibbitts (editor) and University of Pittsburgh School of Law students.

[JURIST] At least four people were killed in Iran on Sunday after violence broke out between government security forces and opposition protesters. The protests, which were the largest since those that followed the June presidential election, interrupted the Shia Muslim celebration of Ashura, which marks the 7th century death of the Prophet Muhammad's grandson Hussein. Iranian officials warned the public against protests prior to the holy day. The government initially denied reports that shots were directed into the crowds, claiming that the security forces were not armed. Police later confirmed that four individuals were killed, several others, including police officers, were injured and over 300 protesters were arrested. Among those reported dead is the 35-year-old nephew of opposition leader Mir Hossein Mousavi. The Iranian government has faced significant international scrutiny for its handling of the protests and treatment of thousands arrested as a result. Earlier this month, Amnesty International (AI) labeled human rights violations committed by the Iranian government following the election among the worst of the past 20 years. In September, human rights groups called for the UN General Assembly to appoint a special envoy to investigate allegations of rights violations. Alleged human rights abuses of detainees include sexual assault, beatings, and forced confessions.

Full post as published by JURIST - The Paper Chase on December 27, 2009 (boomark / email).