Grieving families of protesters killed during unrest in Iran have received compensation in the form of £28 gift cards, witnesses report. Officials from the Revolutionary Guards and provincial authorities have visited homes in the northern Golestan province, traveling in groups of six to 10 people.
These officials warn families against sharing their stories publicly and provide the government’s version of events surrounding the protests. Prior to departing, they present a folder with a certificate of appreciation along with one or two gift cards valued at 50 million rial, equivalent to £28, according to accounts from affected families.
Families Denounce Offer as Attempt to Silence Them
Families view the gesture as a degrading effort to secure their silence and deter potential legal challenges over the deaths of their loved ones.
Prior Economic Relief Measures
In January, authorities introduced monthly vouchers worth £5 to citizens amid widespread demonstrations against clerical leadership and economic decline. This aid matches the average daily wage for Iranian workers.
President Masoud Pezeshkian unveiled the economic relief initiative, stating: “Any problems or shortcomings in society are a direct result of actions – therefore, it is essential that stakeholders and implementers are involved in all aspects of decision-making.”
He added: “Undoubtedly, direct interaction with the people – listening to their concerns, demands, and criticisms and working to persuade public opinion – plays a key role in reducing psychological and social pressures. Society cannot be appeased or calmed through coercion or improper methods.”
Confirmed Death Toll Exceeds 7,000
The verified fatalities from the protest crackdown now exceed 7,000, with additional deaths likely. Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), based in the US, records 7,005 deaths, including 214 government forces.
