Iran Protests: Official Confirms 5,000 Deaths, Blames 'Terrorists'

• An unnamed Iranian official confirmed at least 5,000 deaths in recent protests, including 500 security personnel.
• The official attributed the deaths of "innocent Iranians" to "terrorists and armed rioters."
• He noted that the highest number of deaths and heaviest clashes occurred in Iranian Kurdish areas in northwest Iran.
• The official claimed that "Israel and armed groups abroad" supported and equipped the protesters.
• HRANA rights group reported 3,308 confirmed deaths and over 24,000 arrests, with 4,382 cases under review.

Why It Matters: An Iranian official confirmed 5,000 protest deaths, blaming foreign entities and 'terrorists'.