REPORT: Iran accused of killing 16,500 in sweeping ‘genocide’ crackdown

January 19, 2026

Iranian protesters are facing their deadliest days yet as security forces unleash mass killings and executions in a sweeping crackdown some have labeled “genocide,” new reports say.

According to The Sunday Times, a report compiled by doctors entrenched in the region and reviewed by the outlet estimates that security forces have killed at least 16,500 protesters and injured more than 330,000 others.

The report also described the violence as an “utter slaughter,” warning that the true toll may be even higher due to restricted access to hospitals and the near-total shutdown of communications.

The report highlights the impact on Iran’s younger generation, with most victims believed to be under 30.

Iran’s supreme leader acknowledged thousands killed since protests began, blaming demonstrators and falsely claiming they were armed.

Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) reports 3,919 confirmed deaths, 8,949 under investigation, 2,109 severely injured, and 24,669 detainees in Iran protests. The true toll is likely higher, but it is difficult to know due to internet shutdowns.

Doctors in Iran are shocked and crying despite their experience treating war injuries, claimed professor Amir Parasta, an Iranian-German eye surgeon and medical director of Munich MED.