In brief
Parnia, an Iranian expat, recalls the traumatic scenes in Isfahan, where security forces responded to protests with live ammunition, resulting in numerous injuries and fatalities. As internet blackouts hindered information flow, Parnia's account offers a glimpse into the chaos and violence faced by peaceful protesters amid the turmoil.
Warning: This story contains details which some readers might find distressing.
Parnia, an Iranian woman currently residing in London, witnessed the brutal crackdown on protests in her hometown of Isfahan. Describing her neighborhood as a 'war zone', she observed security forces opening fire on crowds, resulting in chaos and injury.
Amid a government-imposed internet blackout, Parnia recounted her experience of joining the protests, where she saw hundreds of demonstrators, young and old, chanting anti-government slogans. The protests, fueled by resentment over economic hardships, escalated quickly, as tear gas and birdshot were used to disperse crowds.
I saw people getting shot and falling down, and I saw blood on the street, she disclosed, adding that she took refuge in an apartment block where she encountered many injured protesters.
Videos corroborated her story, showing large crowds and makeshift barricades erected by protesters for protection against gunfire. Unfortunately, the situation deteriorated further, with reports of significant injuries and fatalities continuing to emerge.
Reflecting the grim atmosphere, Parnia described scenes of 'total chaos' at local clinics treating the wounded, with many fearing arrest if they sought aid in hospitals. Upon her departure from Isfahan, she learned that medical resources were overwhelmed, with reports indicating that injured protesters were being monitored by security forces.
Amid ongoing turmoil, she urged for attention on the situation in Iran, voicing her commitment to amplify the voices of silenced protesters worldwide.
