Tehran: Iranian police said 139 foreign nationals have been arrested in Yazd province for their role in recent protests. Authorities alleged some detainees had links to networks operating outside Iran. The semi-official Tasnim news agency did not specify their nationalities.
The unrest in Yazd follows nationwide protests that began in December over economic hardships and turned political. Iran experienced its most violent crackdown since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, with an official death toll of 3,117, though rights groups report higher numbers. Nearly 50,000 people have been arrested so far, according to US-based HRANA.
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Yazd’s police commander, Ahmad Negahban, said foreign nationals actively organised, incited, and directed riotous actions. Some were allegedly in contact with networks abroad. Judicial authorities warned of severe consequences for detainees who committed violent acts.
Iran’s judiciary spokesperson, Asghar Jahangir, said those involved in “American sedition” would not be spared. Iranian media also reported four foreigners arrested in Tehran over last month’s unrest. Earlier reports focused mainly on suspected protest ringleaders.
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Following a 12-day war in June, Iran increased deportations of foreign nationals, particularly Afghans. Tehran blamed Israel and the US for fomenting unrest and accused foreign agents of instigating violence. Authorities are maintaining strict control over protest-linked activities.