15.01.2026 10:02
While protests continue in Iran, some images shared on social media show a group of protesters entering a structure designated as a shrine and causing damage inside, as well as setting the building on fire.
While different figures regarding casualties and arrests have emerged in the wave of protests that began on December 28 in Iran, some images reflected on social media have sparked a new debate in the country and among the international public.
NUMBER OF ARRESTS EXCEEDS 18 THOUSAND
While there is no definitive and single official account of the toll of the protests, sources such as the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA) claim that since the protests began on December 28, the death toll has exceeded 2,500 and the number of arrests has surpassed 18,000. According to information reported by the Associated Press, the number of people who lost their lives in the protests has risen to at least 2,586, while the number of detainees has exceeded 18,000.
THEY STARTED ATTACKING SHRINES
In some footage reportedly from Iran, a group of protesters is seen entering a structure described as a shrine/mausoleum, causing damage inside and starting a fire. Following the spread of the images, comments were made that these actions were a "disrespect to sacred places."