At Least 65 Dead in Iran Protests Amid Internet Shutdown

At least 65 people have been killed and more than 2,300 arrested in Iran over the past two weeks, according to a US-based human rights group. Protests have spread to at least 100 cities across all 31 provinces in Iran. The protests are motivated by soaring prices and economic hardship.

According to CNN, eyewitnesses describe scenes of chaos and brutality. Protesters in Tehran described Friday night as a “nightmare” when security forces began firing bullets and tear gas at demonstrators.

Iran has imposed a countrywide internet blackout for more than 48 hours, which failed to stop people taking to the streets.

The developing situation represents the most serious challenge to the Iranian regime in years, according to CNN.