"Protests sweeping across Iran neared the two-week mark Saturday, with the country's government acknowledging the ongoing demonstrations despite an intensifying crackdown and as the Islamic Republic remains cut off from the rest of the world. With the internet down in Iran and phone lines cut off, gauging the demonstrations from abroad has grown more difficult. But the death toll in the protests has grown to at least 72 people killed and over 2,300 others detained, according to the U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency."
"Tehran escalated its threats Saturday, with the Iran's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, warning that anyone taking part in protests will be considered an enemy of God, a death-penalty charge. The statement carried by Iranian state television said even those who helped rioters would face the charge. Prosecutors must carefully and without delay, by issuing indictments, prepare the grounds for the trial."
Protests sweeping Iran neared the two-week mark as the government acknowledged ongoing demonstrations despite an intensifying crackdown and a communications blackout. Internet and phone lines are down, complicating outside assessment of events. The U.S.-based Human Rights Activists News Agency reports at least 72 people killed and more than 2,300 detained. State television reports security force casualties while asserting control. Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei signaled a coming clampdown, and Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad warned that protest participants and those aiding rioters would be considered enemies of God, a death-penalty charge. Prosecutors were instructed to pursue indictments without leniency. U.S. officials expressed support for protesters.
Read at www.mercurynews.com
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