26 women killed in Iranian protests since the death of Mahsa Amini

Devastating.

Following the death of 22 year old Mahsa Amini in Iran, the death toll from the protests that came after has risen to more than two dozen, according to Iranian state TV. With reports of the death toll now being as high as 26, the news anchor for the station did not follow up on the information or acknowledge any sources. “Unfortunately, 26 people and police officers present at the scene of these events lost their lives,” he said, noting that official statistics will be released later. Protest against Iranian security forces has resulted in at least 11 deaths since last weekend, according to Associated Press. Protests began after the murder of Mahsa Amini who was held by Iran's morality police after she allegedly violated their new and extremely strict dress code laws. Police have claimed she died of a heart attack and had not been mistreated, but her family has disputed this. Demonstrations have now been reported to be occurring in at least 13 cities, with hundreds attending and authorities placing restrictions on the internet, with access to WhatsApp and Instagram now blocked. The death of Mahsa Amini has since sparked global condemnation from the western world and the United Nations while Iran has alleged that these nations are only trying to provoke more unrest. “The death has tapped into broader anti-government sentiment in the Islamic Republic and especially the frustration of women,” wrote political risk firm Eurasia Group. “In the cold calculus of Iranian leaders … a more forceful response is required to quell the unrest,” the group added.