Economic crisis protests in Iran turn into anti-regime uprising

Protests that began in Iran over economic problems and the rapid devaluation of the national currency have quickly turned into an anti-regime uprising. As tensions between protesters and security forces rise across the country, particularly in many regions in the west and southwest, police buildings and vehicles have been set on fire with Molotov cocktails.

As the events enter their fifth day, reports of clashes have emerged from the city of Lordegan and the regions of Azna and Kuhdasht, and it has been reported that the number of those who have lost their lives is increasing. Security forces have resorted to using live ammunition to disperse the crowds. Images shared on social media show that the streets have turned into a virtual battlefield.

US President Donald Trump, in a statement on his social media account, warned the Tehran administration and issued an explicit war threat, stating, "If Iran resorts to violence against peaceful protesters as it always does, and shoots and kills them, the United States will come to the aid of the protesters. Our weapons are ready, we are ready to fire."

Various human rights organizations have announced that at least 6 people have lost their lives during the actions. The human rights organization Hengaw announced the names of Ahmed Celil and Sacit Valamanesh among those who died. The Fars News Agency reported that a security officer linked to the Revolutionary Guards died in Kuhdasht, but some protesters claimed that this person was one of their own.

Following the rise in tension across the country, authorities have set up security barricades at key points, primarily in the capital, Tehran. However, protesters gathering in the streets have expressed at every opportunity that they will not give up their demands against the government.

The sudden public holiday declared citing cold weather conditions, along with the closure of schools and universities, were interpreted as an attempt to prevent the protests. Protesters are expressing their anger toward Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei with chants of "Death to Khamenei!" A group is also calling for Iran to return to a monarchical system. These slogans and events have found great resonance on social media.

In the markets of Tehran, shopkeepers have closed their shutters due to the economic crisis and joined the ongoing protests. As both the economic and social crisis deepens in the country due to the events, the new steps the government will take and the international reactions are awaited with curiosity.

News Source: 12punto