Iran used mosques to surveil, shoot at January protesters: Report

Iranian security forces utilized mosques in Tehran during a January crackdown on protesters, according to evidence reviewed by Iran International. Intercepted radio communications, video footage, and eyewitness accounts suggest that security operations were conducted from mosques on January 8 and 9. Witnesses described security personnel deploying forces and equipment inside Imam Hossein Mosque, which was geolocated to the intersection of Sattari Highway and Mokhbari Street in western Tehran.

Surveillance drones were also seen flying overhead. Witnesses reported that security personnel positioned outside mosques engaged protesters, while forces inside mosques emerged to beat and arrest demonstrators. One witness claimed people were stationed on the roof of a mosque near Kashani Boulevard on January 8. The crackdown occurred amid widespread protests as authorities faced public anger and unrest.

Iran faces economic pressure, with its currency at a record low and rising prices affecting ordinary people. Despite the strain, Tehran has not yet seen significant political pressure. Meanwhile, Pakistan has sent a high-level delegation to Iran to encourage the US and Iran to return to negotiations, highlighting the ongoing uncertainty surrounding the conflict.