Iranian security forces fire on opposition protesters killing 8

IRANIAN security forces opened fire on anti-government protesters in the capital yesterday, killing at least eight people and injuring two others, according to opposition websites and witnesses.

Authorities had warned of a harsh crackdown should opposition supporters hold rallies coinciding with yesterday’s religious observances marking the 7th Century death in battle of one of Shi’ite Islam’s most beloved saints.

Police helicopters circled overhead and clouds of smoke billowed into the sky.

The pro-reform website Rah-e-Sabz said security forces fired on protesters, killing at least eight.

Witnesses say one of the victims was an elderly man who had a gunshot wound to the forehead. He was seen being carried by opposition supporters.