Iranian authorities announced on Saturday the arrest of dozens of individuals they described as “leaders” of recent unrest across the country. The arrests follow two weeks of widespread protests sparked by deteriorating economic conditions. Meanwhile, both the United States and the European Union have voiced their support for the demonstrators.
According to Iran’s semi-official Tasnim News Agency, a security source stated that 200 “riot leaders” were apprehended, allegedly in possession of weapons and explosives. The same source also reported the arrest of 100 “armed agitators” in Baharestan, near Tehran.
A judicial official reported that six security personnel and police officers were killed, and 120 others injured, during unrest in Fars province, southern Iran. The official claimed that “individuals linked to enemies” exploited legitimate public grievances to target the country’s security and stability.
State television broadcast footage of funeral processions for security personnel allegedly killed in the protests in cities including Shiraz, Qom, and Hamadan.
In a statement broadcast on state television, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) accused what it termed “terrorists” of targeting military and security bases over the past two nights, resulting in the deaths of civilians and security personnel. The IRGC also stated that property had been set on fire, adding that safeguarding the achievements of the 1979 revolution and maintaining security was a “red line.”
In a separate statement, the Iranian army affirmed that it would “protect and safeguard national interests, strategic infrastructure, and public property.”
Iranian police have reported that 270 of their officers have been injured since the protests began two weeks ago.
Activists have shared videos showing gatherings in areas west of Tehran, as well as in the cities of Tabriz, Mashhad, Yazd, Kashan, and Karaj. Protesters reportedly chanted slogans against the authorities amidst a heavy security presence.
Following large demonstrations, reports indicate that new protests took place during the night, spreading to multiple regions across the country.
