Iranian security forces are deliberately firing at protesters’ heads in an apparent attempt to cause permanent, debilitating injuries, local medical professionals have claimed, according to an investigation reported by The Guardian.
Doctors treating injured demonstrators say they have documented a disturbing pattern of gunshot wounds aimed at the face and head, particularly the eyes. An ophthalmologist working at a major hospital in Tehran told the newspaper that more than 400 eye injuries caused by gunfire have been recorded at the facility alone.
Medical staff cited in the report claim that many of the injuries are consistent with the use of live ammunition or metal pellets fired at close range. Physicians allege that the nature and concentration of the wounds indicate intentional targeting rather than accidental or indiscriminate fire.
Human rights groups have previously warned that blinding protesters has become a recurring tactic during crackdowns by security forces in Iran, particularly during large-scale demonstrations. Such injuries often result in permanent vision loss and long-term disability, adding to the physical and psychological toll on those taking part in the protests.
Iranian authorities have repeatedly denied accusations of excessive force against demonstrators and maintain that security personnel act within the law. However, the accounts provided by medical professionals raise renewed concerns over the methods used to suppress ongoing unrest across the country.
