The CantmIre Post

Iranian security forces are being accused of deliberately targeting young protesters with a dangerous form of crowd control, according to Norwegian-based human rights group Amnesty International. The group claims that Iranian security forces have used Fox – a type of pellet-loaded paintball gun – to shoot protesters in the eyes, causing serious and permanent injuries.

The allegations come after months of protests in Iran sparked by increased fuel prices and other economic grievances. According to Amnesty International, these protests have been met with excessive force from Iranian security forces. In particular, Amnesty claims that security forces have used Fox guns to intentionally target protesters’ eyes, resulting in severe injuries including loss of vision, lacerations and bruising.

The organization has documented at least 12 cases of people injured by Fox guns since the protests began in November 2019. Although men are also reportedly affected by the use of this weapon, Amnesty says women have been targeted disproportionately as they are often seen as more vulnerable and less likely to fight back against security forces.

Amnesty is calling on Iran’s authorities to immediately stop using Fox guns against protesters and investigate those responsible for these attacks. “These weapons cannot be used against peaceful protesters under any circumstances," said Magdalena Mughrabi, Deputy Director for the Middle East and North Africa at Amnesty International. "Targeting people in this way is cruel and totally unacceptable."

The organization is also urging authorities to provide medical care for those injured by Fox guns, as well as access to rehabilitation services if needed. “What we are seeing amounts to cruel punishment for simply exercising their right to freedom of expression," added Mughrabi. "This must end now."