- Iranian authorities report over 3,000 deaths during recent anti-government protests.
- The state broadcaster attributes the deaths to "foreign-backed terrorism," including security forces.
- Internet restrictions and a decrease in protests make it difficult to ascertain the full extent of the unrest.

A: Hey Hana! Did you hear anything about what's been happening in Iran?

B: No, Kenji! What’s going on? It sounds serious.

A: Yeah, it is. The government just released a number. They say over 3,000 people have died in those protests.

B: Wow, 3,000? That's… a lot. I thought there were protests, but I didn’t realize it was so big.

A: Right? Their TV station reported that number too, but they’re saying it’s because of “foreign terrorism.” Pretty strong words.

B: Hmm, that’s their way of explaining it, I guess. I read somewhere before that some reports suggested it could be closer to 5,000 people.

A: Really? Reuters quoted officials saying that! It's hard to know for sure, isn’t it?

B: Totally. They’ve also been cutting off the internet, so it’s hard to get a clear picture of what’s actually happening.

A: Exactly. They’re saying the protests are now “under control,” though.

B: Let’s hope things calm down soon. It’s really sad to hear about all of this.