Mai Sato, the United Nations Special Rapporteur on the human rights situation in Iran, referring to the escalation of nationwide protests, called on officials of the Iranian regime to respect the rights to freedom of expression, association, and peaceful assembly, and to refrain from using violence against protesters.
In a message posted on the social media platform X, Mai Sato said that over the past six days of nationwide protests in Iran, reports indicate an intensification of confrontations between protesters and security forces, a pattern that she said is spreading nationwide. Sato stated that she has received “concerning” reports indicating that at least eight protesters have been killed during these protests.
Day six of demonstrations across Iran. I have been monitoring the situation closely and reports indicate growing confrontation between protesters and security forces—a pattern spreading nationwide. I have received alarming reports of 8 protesters killed during these…
— Mai Sato (@drmaisato) January 2, 2026
Referring to the obligations of governments under international law, she called on Iranian officials to respect rights related to freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the right to peaceful assembly, and to refrain from using “excessive force” against peaceful protesters.
At the same time, senior United Nations officials also called for restraint and respect for the fundamental rights of citizens.
Earlier, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights said that the office is closely and with concern monitoring the ongoing protests in Iran and reports related to violence. This international body emphasized that it is continuously observing developments on the ground and the situation of protesters.
In this context, Volker Türk, the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights, called on those in authority to respect rights related to freedom of expression, freedom of association, and the right to peaceful assembly. He said that all individuals must be able to protest peacefully and freely express their demands and grievances.
The office of the spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General also stated that the organization supports the right to peaceful protest everywhere and emphasized the need to protect protesters and prevent an escalation of violence.
These reactions come as reports from various cities across Iran indicate the continuation of protests and a heavy presence of security forces, while human rights organizations warn of rising casualties and arrests.
On the sixth day of nationwide protests in Iran, gatherings and marches continued in a number of cities, and during the funerals of three slain protesters, chants were voiced against the Iranian regime. At the same time, Donald Trump said that if Iran’s rulers kill peaceful protesters, the United States will come to their aid.
