Bystander student Arash, 22, was shot dead by Iranian security forces while walking home in Tehran on 8 January, after police opened fire on protesters near Vanak market. The incident, reported by Amnesty and HRANA, highlights the indiscriminate use of lethal force against civilians during nationwide anti‑government demonstrations that began on 28 December over economic hardship. HRANA has confirmed 4,519 deaths linked to the unrest, including 4,251 protesters, 197 security personnel, 35 minors and 38 civilians. The Iranian government attributes the violence to “terrorists and rebels” supported by foreign adversaries, citing the United States and Israel. Reuters could not independently verify the exact number of bystander casualties. The case underscores the escalating crackdown and the government's refusal to engage with international bodies. The story is a stark reminder of the human cost of the current political crisis in Iran.

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