The UN High Commissioner for Human Rights has strongly condemned the killing of protesters in Iran as violent protests rock the country.

In a statement issued on Friday, Volker Türk said he was “deeply disturbed” by the violence reported over nearly two weeks of demonstrations, stressing that those responsible for any violations must be held to account in line with international human rights standards.

People took to the streets of the capital, Tehran, in the final days of December 2025 fueled by the country’s cost-of-living crisis. Rights groups have reported that nearly 50 have been killed and hundreds arrested.

To prevent further escalation, Mr. Türk said it is essential to address underlying grievances through “inclusive and meaningful dialogue.”

Multiple news outlets have reported nationwide internet and communication shutdowns in Iran as of Thursday night.

Mr. Türk said such action undermines freedom of expression and access to information. There has been a near total news blackout on Friday.

It also adversely impacts the work of those documenting human rights violations and access to essential and emergency services, he added.

Responding to a question during Friday’s noon briefing, the UN Spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric said UN staff on the ground are “safe and accounted for.”