54 countries urge Iran to stop using force on peaceful protesters

Amid growing unrest in Iran over the death of Mahsa Amini and the Islamic republic's strict dress code for women, 54 nations have signed a statement urging Iran's regime to stop using force against peaceful protesters. Until now, the crackdown has taken over 80 lives.

The anti-hijab movement in Iran has gained massive support across the world with demonstrations being held in 159 cities ranging from Auckland and New York to Seoul and Zurich. said the Iranians for Justice and Human Rights group.

The 1500tasvir social media channel shared visuals from Tehran, Mashhad, and Kermanshah. Iranian police have been arresting protesters including students. Demonstrators have been demanding their release as well.

In Brisbane, Australia, thousands from the Iranian diaspora gathered in support of their kin back home with the catchcry 'Be our voice'. In Tokyo, pictures of women who burnt their headscarves were carried along with 22-year-old custodial death victim Amini's photos, reported AFP.

Iran's intelligence ministry said nine foreign nationals were arrested at or behind the scenes of riots. 256 members of outlawed opposition groups were also detained. In Iran's southeastern Sistan-Baluchestan province, 20 people died in clashes with the police.

Iran's regime has blamed outside forces for nationwide protests. The Revolutionary Guards' missile struck the autonomous Iraqi Kurdistan region and killed 14 people. The government accused rebel groups in the region of fuelling unrest in the country. Amnesty International said the government is intentionally using lethal force to crush the women-led protests.