Widespread arrests in Iran continue weeks after protests were crushed

Authorities in Iran have carried out widespread arrests weeks after security forces moved to crush nationwide protests; activist groups report large numbers detained while tracking is hampered by internet restrictions.

Security agents across Iran have conducted widespread arrests in the weeks following a government crackdown on nationwide protests. The protests began in late December over economic grievances and reached large-scale demonstrations in early January. Authorities have described protesters as security threats while some judicial officials have called for swift penalties. Communication limits and an internet slowdown have made it difficult for families and rights groups to track detainees. Key facts: - Activist and monitoring groups report large numbers of arrests nationwide, though some tallies are unverified by independent sources. - A committee monitoring detainees has verified more than 2,200 names, including students, children and professionals, according to organizers. - Reports say many detainees have been held with limited or no contact with family or lawyers, and tracking has been hampered by restricted communications. - Groups documenting arrests say authorities have reviewed surveillance footage and taken steps such as blocking phone service or freezing accounts, according to lawyers and relatives. Summary: The reported arrests have widened the scope of detentions and contributed to heightened uncertainty across society while civic groups continue to document cases and speak out. Undetermined at this time.