A widely shared image of abandoned shoes from Iran’s city of Rasht has drawn international attention after reports that security forces trapped protesters inside a historic bazaar, set it on fire, and shot those trying to escape on Jan. 8.

Eyewitnesses and human rights groups allege the victims had surrendered before being killed, with footage showing the burned remains of the marketplace.

Journalists and activists have compared the image to Holocaust memorials, calling the incident a crime against humanity and condemning Iran’s leadership.

The violence reportedly escalated after a nationwide internet blackout, which rights groups say allowed security forces to operate without scrutiny, the New York Post has reported.

Protests over rising living costs have since spread, with reports suggesting a death toll far higher than officially verified figures and widespread injuries among civilians.