General of Police Killed During Unrest in Iran

In the northeastern city of Mashhad, Iran, Brigadier General Javad Keshavarz, head of the anti-narcotics police, has been killed in an attack by armed terrorists. This was reported by the command of the law enforcement forces in Razavi Khorasan province.

“Brigadier General Javad Keshavarz of Mashhad's anti-narcotics police was killed following an armed attack by terrorists in the city,” the Iranian state broadcaster quoted officials as saying.

It is important to note that mass protests have been taking place in Iran since December 28. The main reasons for the discontent include fluctuations in exchange rates and rising prices. According to the Central Bank of Iran, the annual inflation rate has reached 38.9 percent, and the national currency has sharply devalued. In several cities, protests have escalated into clashes with the police.