US condemns violence against protesters in Iran
The US condemnation comes as rights groups accuse Iranian authorities of a violent crackdown on protests that erupted earlier this month over severe water shortages in the southwestern province of Khuzestan.
The State Department on Wednesday condemned the use of violence against anti-government protesters in Iran, a rebuke that comes as nuclear negotiations with Tehran remain at a standstill.
The widespread protests, which erupted nearly two weeks ago over chronic water shortages in the southwestern region of Khuzestan, have spread to several cities including the capital, Tehran.
Amnesty International has accused Iran’s security forces of deploying unlawful force, including by firing live ammunition and birdshot, on the protests. State media reports at least five people have died, but rights groups say the casualty count is much higher.
“The Iranian people are now putting a spotlight not only on their unmet needs but also their unfulfilled aspirations for respect for human rights — rights to which individuals the world over are entitled,” State Department spokesperson Ned Price said in a statement.
