Iran's anti-government protests wane but discontent lingers

DUBAI, United Arab Emirates (AP) — An Iranian official said Thursday that the protests over the death of a woman who was being held by the morality police have ended in Tehran, even as anti-government chanting could be heard from windows and rooftops in some areas of the country's capital the previous night.

Iran has been rocked by nationwide protests following the death earlier this month of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini, who was detained by the morality police for allegedly wearing the mandatory Islamic headscarf too loosely. Her death has triggered an outpouring of anger at the country's ruling clerics.

Iranian police have clashed with protesters in dozens of cities across the country and authorities have imposed internet blackouts try to stifle the demonstrations.

State TV has reported that at least 41 protesters and police have been killed since the demonstrations began Sept. 17. An Associated Press count of official statements by authorities tallied at least 14 dead, with more than 1,500 demonstrators arrested.

Iran held a funeral on Thursday for a policeman who died from injuries suffered several days ago in the working class town of Parand, near Tehran.

Tehran's provincial governor, Mohsen Mansouri, was quoted by state media as saying the protests in the capital have ended and security has been restored.

Authorities are still blocking access to WhatsApp and Instagram, social media services used by protesters to organize and share information. They are also heavily restricting internet access in the afternoons to prevent demonstrations from forming.

Protesters have resorted to chanting “Death to the dictator” from inside buildings at night, making it harder for police to arrest them. Students have continued to demonstrate on some university campuses, including...