🔥 Tens of thousands of pro-government Iranians took to the streets on Monday, filling Tehran's Enghelab Square and other cities like Kerman, Zahedan and Birjand to show solidarity with the state amid a wave of unrest.
State media framed these gatherings as a "popular uprising against American-Zionist terrorism." In Shahrud, the rallies even coincided with a funeral for security personnel killed during recent clashes, highlighting how high the tensions have climbed.
What sparked this? Last month, the Iranian rial plunged in value and major subsidy reforms hit everyday budgets. Imagine your local currency crashing overnight – that's the economic shock Iranians felt.
Foreign Minister Seyed Abbas Araghchi declared the situation "under total control" and accused the U.S. of meddling in domestic affairs. He claimed evidence shows foreign forces supplied weapons to protesters and warned that security forces are on high alert.
Meanwhile, U.S. President Donald Trump mentioned "strong options," including possible military action, though he said diplomacy remains his top choice. Iran has not publicly confirmed any direct talks with Washington.
Casualty reports vary: state media say 111 security personnel were killed, while rights groups estimate around 600 protesters have died – figures that can't be independently verified.
The European Union is considering tougher sanctions and has barred Iranian diplomats from European Parliament premises. In response, Iran summoned envoys from Britain, Germany, France and Italy to present footage they say proves violent acts by so-called rioters.
China's Foreign Ministry also weighed in, urging stability and dialogue to calm tensions in this key Middle Eastern nation.
As Iran navigates this complex moment, the world watches: will protests flare up again, or will calls for dialogue pave the way for calm?
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Tens of thousands rally in Iran to show support for government
cgtn.com
