Iranian expatriates are desperate to learn the fate of loved ones | DW News

Key Concepts

• Iranian Protests: Widespread demonstrations occurring in Iran, met with a violent crackdown by the regime.
• Communications Blackout: Intentional disruption of internet and communication channels by the Iranian government.
• Extrajudicial Killings: Allegations of protesters being killed by security forces, with concerns about transparency and accountability.
• International Sanctions: Long-standing economic sanctions imposed on Iran, impacting its economy and potentially its citizens’ well-being.
• Fear of Reprisal: Concerns among Iranians, both within the country and abroad, regarding potential repercussions for participating in or being associated with protests.

Acknowledgment of Deaths & Violent Crackdown

Iran’s Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, has publicly acknowledged the deaths of “thousands” of Iranians during recent protests. This admission comes amidst widespread reports from observers indicating a severe and violent crackdown on dissent. The violence has generated significant fear among Iranians living abroad concerning the safety of their family members still residing in Iran. The difficulty in obtaining information due to deliberate communications disruptions exacerbates these anxieties.

Mariam’s Story: Fear and Uncertainty from South Africa

The report focuses on “Mariam” (a pseudonym used to protect her identity), an Iranian woman living in South Africa, who has been unable to contact her family in Iran for days. She expresses profound worry for their well-being, stating, “Everybody that I know and love is there.” Her last communication with her mother warned of an impending internet shutdown.

Mariam actively seeks information through videos shared on Telegram by Iranians abroad, meticulously examining footage for any sign of her loved ones. She describes a harrowing process of scrutinizing images, even zooming in on body bags to identify potential victims, noting one instance of a 16-year-old identified by their birth year (2009) being among the deceased.

Reports from Within Iran: Escalating Violence

Mariam has recently begun receiving fragmented messages from her cousin detailing the escalating violence. Her cousin describes a “massacre” involving the use of live ammunition, smoke bombs, sonic bombs, and flashbang grenades. He also reports the presence of drones used for surveillance, stating, “All the while, there are drones on top of you filming your every move.” He estimates that “at least 100 died, maybe 200” on a single night. Despite official announcements halting executions of protesters, Mariam remains skeptical of the regime’s intentions.

Impact of Sanctions & Perceived International Apathy

Mariam expresses a sense of hopelessness regarding international intervention, citing the long-standing economic sanctions imposed on Iran – approximately 47 years – as a reason for perceived indifference from foreign governments. She states, “That means that we have no economic trade with any European country. So the politicians couldn't care less if we live or die.” This sentiment highlights a feeling of isolation and abandonment among Iranians facing internal repression.

Brief Contact & Renewed Concerns

Unexpectedly, Mariam receives a phone call from her mother. While relieved to hear her mother is safe, the conversation reveals further cause for concern. Her mother confirms her brother is alive but urgently requests Mariam to “do something to get your brother out of the country,” implying his involvement in the protests and the risk of his identification by authorities. This exchange underscores the pervasive fear of reprisal and the desperate need for escape.

Logical Connections & Synthesis

The report establishes a clear connection between the Supreme Leader’s acknowledgment of deaths and the lived experience of Iranians like Mariam, who are grappling with fear, uncertainty, and a lack of information. The escalating violence described by Mariam’s cousin, coupled with the perceived lack of international support, paints a bleak picture of the situation in Iran. The final phone call with her mother, while providing momentary relief, ultimately reinforces the underlying anxiety and the urgent need for safety.

The main takeaway is the human cost of the Iranian government’s crackdown on protests, the desperation of Iranians seeking safety, and the feeling of abandonment by the international community. The report highlights the power of communication – and the devastating impact of its disruption – in times of political unrest.