Around 2,000 people have died so far in the ongoing protests sweeping Iran, an Iranian official told Reuters on Tuesday. This figure includes both civilians and members of the security forces. The official blamed the deaths on "terrorists," armed groups, and hostile foreign actors. The protests started over economic hardship and social grievances but later escalated with violent clashes. Tehran accuses the US, Israel, and other external forces of supporting the unrest. Officials reject claims that the protests are peaceful and say security forces are responding to violence. The protests have led to a strong security crackdown, arrests, and internet restrictions. Independent verification of casualty numbers is difficult due to strict government controls. International rights bodies accuse Iranian forces of using excessive force, but Tehran denies these claims and rejects calls for outside investigations. US President Donald Trump has warned of potential strikes if Iran continues its crackdown on protesters.