Ankara: Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi has dismissed claims made by US President Donald Trump that 32,000 civilians were killed during protests in Iran. Araghchi has called upon the US to provide evidence to substantiate these higher estimates, asserting that Tehran has already released official figures regarding the casualties.

According to Anadolu Agency, Araghchi emphasized Iran’s transparency by highlighting the publication of an official list which documents 3,117 victims of what he described as ‘recent terrorist operations,’ including around 200 security personnel. He challenged anyone disputing the accuracy of this data to present evidence.

President Trump, during comments made on Friday, suggested that these deaths occurred over a “relatively short period of time.” He also mentioned the possibility of considering a limited military strike to pressure Iran into a deal, though he did not provide additional details on this potential action.

This controversy follows a recent wave of arrests in Iran after protests that initially began over economic issues but later escalated into violence. Official figures report more than 3,000 deaths. Iranian authorities have accused the US and Israel of supporting the unrest, labeling it as ‘rioting’ and ‘terrorism.’

Amid these tensions, Iran and the US have resumed nuclear negotiations, initially in Muscat and followed by talks in Geneva, facilitated by Oman’s mediation. The discussions occur against a backdrop of heightened regional tensions, including a significant US military presence in the Persian Gulf and Iranian military drills.

Trump further warned that the US could resort to military action against Iran within 10 to 15 days if the negotiations do not succeed, as mentioned during the inaugural meeting of the Board of Peace in Washington, DC.