Iranian security forces have killed at least 45 protesters, including eight minors, during a crackdown on demonstrations that started in late December, according to the Norway-based group Iran Human Rights. The group reported that Wednesday marked the deadliest day of the protests, with 13 confirmed deaths. The director of Iran Human Rights stated that the violence and extent of the crackdown are increasing daily, with hundreds wounded and over 2,000 people arrested. Official sources within Iran have reported at least 21 deaths, including members of the security forces, since the protests began.