Iran reports first official protest death toll as top diplomat warns U.S.

Iranian state television reported 3,117 deaths in protests and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi warned Iran would 'fire back with everything we have' if attacked; independent verification of the toll is not available.

Iranian state television said the Martyrs Foundation reported 3,117 people were killed in protests that began on Dec. 28. The foundation said 2,427 of the dead were civilians and security forces and did not elaborate on the remainder. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi wrote an opinion piece warning Iran would "fire back with everything we have" if it came under renewed attack. Independent verification of the death toll is not available amid an internet shutdown. Key details: - State television cited the Martyrs Foundation's figure of 3,117 deaths and identified 2,427 as civilians and security forces. - The Human Rights Activists News Agency reported a higher toll of about 4,560 and said roughly 26,500 people have been arrested. - Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi published a column warning of a forceful response if Iran is attacked and referred to past military actions without specifying operational steps. - Iran has had a government-imposed internet shutdown and news agencies say independent confirmation of casualties is not possible at this time. Summary: The figures reported by state and independent sources, along with mass arrests, mark the deadliest unrest in Iran in decades and have increased regional tensions. Undetermined at this time.