I noticed other folks getting shot: Eyewitness tells of Iran protest crackdown

Publication Date: January 23, 2026
Source: Life Pulse Daily

Introduction

When government-imposed internet blackouts descend upon a nation, the truth often struggles to emerge from the shadows. In the case of the recent civil unrest in Iran, the information vacuum has been filled with conflicting narratives and state-sponsored messaging. However, the harrowing firsthand accounts of those who witnessed the events on the ground are finally piercing through the censorship.

This article provides a detailed analysis of the Iran protest crackdown, based on the verified testimony of Parnia, an Iranian woman who witnessed the violence in Isfahan before fleeing to London. Through a pedagogical lens, we will dissect the timeline of events, the tactics used by security forces, and the broader human rights implications of the violence. By examining this specific eyewitness account, we aim to provide a clearer picture of the reality faced by Iranian civilians during one of the most volatile periods in recent history.

Key Points

Background

To understand the context of the events described by the witness, it is necessary to look at the socio-economic and political climate of Iran leading up to the protests. The unrest was not an isolated incident but rather a culmination of long-standing grievances.

The Economic Catalyst

The immediate trigger for the protests was the sharp collapse of the Iranian currency. Economic instability has long been a source of tension in the region, but the rapid devaluation exacerbated existing frustrations regarding unemployment and inflation. In cities like Isfahan—a historical hub of culture and commerce—residents took to the streets to voice their dissatisfaction not only with economic policies but with the broader political system.

Isfahan: A History of Dissent

Isfahan has a rich history of political activism and has seen numerous protests and subsequent crackdowns over the years. However, as noted by the eyewitness Parnia, the intensity of the recent crackdown was unprecedented. The protests began in the capital, Tehran, and rapidly spread to the Hakim Nezami and Khaghani neighborhoods of Isfahan, drawing a diverse demographic ranging from children to the elderly.

Analysis

The testimony provided by Parnia offers a chilling microcosm of the broader conflict. By analyzing the sequence of events, we can identify patterns of behavior by state security forces that suggest a coordinated strategy to suppress dissent through disproportionate force.

The Escalation of Force

According to the witness, the security response followed a distinct escalation curve. Initially, forces deployed tear gas to disperse crowds. This non-lethal (though dangerous) crowd control method was quickly replaced by the use of live ammunition and birdshot. The transition from crowd dispersal to lethal force indicates a shift in orders from management to elimination.

The use of birdshot is particularly significant in this context. Unlike standard bullets, birdshot spreads upon firing, increasing the likelihood of hitting multiple targets and causing severe facial and ocular injuries. The witness’s observation of people falling and blood in the streets confirms the transition from a protest to a lethal confrontation.

Strategic Suppression and Information Warfare

The Iranian government’s response extended beyond physical violence. The three-week internet blackout was a critical component of the crackdown. By severing communication lines, the state achieved two objectives:

1. Preventing Organization: Protesters could not coordinate movements or warn others of police movements in real-time.
2. Limiting External Scrutiny: The lack of visual evidence allowed the state to control the narrative, making it difficult for international observers to verify claims of violence.

Furthermore, the Revolutionary Guards sent mass text messages warning citizens against participating in gatherings, labeling potential collaborators as “terrorist mercenaries.” This rhetoric serves to criminalize dissent and instill fear among the populace.

The Medical Response Under Siege

Perhaps the most disturbing aspect of the analysis is the weaponization of healthcare. The witness describes a scene of “total chaos” at a local hospital where phone lines were down, and security forces were present. The fear of arrest deterred many wounded protesters from seeking professional medical help.

Reports from health workers cited in the testimony indicate that hospitals were monitored by security forces. Consequently, doctors began referring patients to private clinics to avoid arrest. The Feiz eye clinic, for example, reportedly performed approximately 300 surgeries to remove pellets from patients’ eyes. This data point suggests a systematic targeting of faces and heads, a tactic often used to inflict permanent disfigurement and discourage future participation in protests.

Practical Advice

For readers seeking to understand the complexity of reporting from conflict zones or supporting human rights efforts, the following practical insights are derived from the events in Isfahan:

Verifying Information in Censored Environments

In the absence of internet access, verifying news becomes exceptionally difficult. When analyzing events in censored regions:

• Cross-Reference Exits: Look for accounts from individuals who have recently exited the country, as they are often the most reliable primary sources.
• Analyze Satellite Imagery: Independent organizations often use satellite data to corroborate claims of fires, roadblocks, or large gatherings.
• Wait for Corroboration: While speed is valuable in news reporting, accuracy is paramount. Avoid spreading unverified rumors that could endanger those on the ground.

Understanding the Impact of Internet Blackouts

Internet blackouts are a form of digital siege. For civilians:

• Communication Plans: Families separated during blackouts should establish alternative communication protocols (e.g., scheduled calls via satellite phones if available, or designated meeting points).
• Digital Security: If internet access is restored briefly, activists should utilize end-to-end encrypted messaging apps and VPNs to protect their identity and data.

FAQ

Conclusion

The eyewitness account from Isfahan paints a grim picture of a state apparatus willing to use lethal force, medical suppression, and information blackouts to maintain control. The transition from tear gas to live ammunition, combined with the specific targeting of facial areas with birdshot, indicates a strategy designed to terrorize the population rather than simply maintain order.

As Parnia and other exiles continue to share their stories, the international community faces the challenge of verifying these accounts and holding responsible parties accountable. The resilience of the Iranian people, who continue to protest despite the risks, underscores a deep-seated desire for change. For the global observer, this testimony serves as a crucial reminder of the human cost of political unrest and the importance of a free press in documenting history as it happens.