Iran Stages Nationwide Demonstrations to Denounce Foreign-Influenced Unrest and Terrorism

Rallies across various provinces, including the capital city of Tehran, commenced at 2:00 p.m. local time on Monday. Nevertheless, in certain other provinces, demonstrators began their gatherings earlier, with start times recorded at 9:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m.

Authorities characterized the nationwide protests as undeniable proof of unity and solidarity against the enemy’s attempts to create chaos and division via mercenaries and terrorists.

Last month, several shopkeepers across various cities organized peaceful protests addressing economic concerns. However, these demonstrations soon devolved into violence following public statements from US and Israeli figures. These statements, further amplified by Israeli-affiliated Persian-language media outlets, incited acts of vandalism and disorder.

Authorities have recognized the validity of economic grievances and pledged to address them. At the same time, they have condemned foreign-backed elements for exploiting concerns related to people’s livelihoods, which are directly connected to unilateral U.S. sanctions affecting Iran’s central bank and oil exports.

Iranian officials assert that those responsible for the recent unrest are being supported by the United States and the Israeli government.

Trump has recently expressed support for rioters and cautioned that Washington might launch an attack on Iran if the so-called “peaceful protesters” were harmed. Meanwhile, former US Secretary of State Mike Pompeo has made statements suggesting potential involvement of Mossad and separatist schemes.

Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, asserted on Friday that the nation “will not yield to vandals,” and called for solidarity against adversaries.

In a televised interview on Sunday, President Masoud Pezeshkian emphasized that the nation must not permit rioters to incite insecurity within the country. He highlighted the distinction between peaceful protesting and engaging in acts of rioting.

Pezeshkian strongly condemned the killing of civilians as “completely unacceptable” and accused the United States and Israel of training and backing the rioters.

Parliament Speaker Mohammad Baqer Qalibaf reiterated on Sunday that while Iran acknowledges the people’s right to peaceful protest, it will resolutely oppose any acts of armed terrorism.

The Iranian judiciary has announced its commitment to implementing stringent measures against individuals it describes as foreign-backed rioters and terrorists, asserting that it will show no leniency towards those engaged in acts of bloodshed and vandalism.

Participants in Monday’s rallies expressed their unwavering support for the Islamic Republic and the Leader of the Islamic Revolution, asserting their resolve to prevent any attempts by adversaries to introduce instability.

At a rally in Tehran, Mohammad Ali Abbasi addressed the crowd, emphasizing a commitment to honor the sacrifices of their martyrs. He expressed a firm resolve to Ayatollah Khamenei that they would resist any attempts by Americans and Zionists to prevail in their hostile actions against the nation, according to remarks reported by the Press TV website.

Numerous participants expressed that while economic and inflation concerns are valid, they stressed that solutions should originate internally rather than from entities implicated in the plight of thousands of Iranians.

A protester, Fatemeh, declared, “We reject any external interference. Despite facing economic difficulties and pressing our demands, we will not allow outsiders to dictate terms to us.”