Protests in Iran: A New Wave of Unrest
Iran has been witnessing a new wave of protests, with demonstrations spreading across the country. Unlike previous instances of unrest, the government has so far refrained from cutting off nationwide internet access. Instead, officials seem keen to avoid an immediate crackdown that could further inflame public anger and broaden the demonstrations.
Government Response
The government has announced a series of closures under the pretext of “cold weather and energy saving.” Government offices were shut down in 26 of Iran’s 31 provinces on Wednesday, and several major universities in Tehran moved classes online until further notice. This move is seen as an attempt to reduce the number of people on the streets and minimize the impact of the protests.
Recognition of the Right to Protest
On the third day of protests, President Masoud Pezeshkian stated that his government recognizes the public’s right to protest. He also tasked the interior minister with holding talks with representatives of Tehran’s bazaar merchants. Ali Ahmadnia, head of the government’s information office, said that the administration had formally accepted the protests and would listen to criticism. However, these comments were met with skepticism on social media, with many users questioning the government’s sincerity.
Warnings from Other Power Centers
While the government has been attempting to placate the protesters, other power centers have issued firm warnings. Iran’s prosecutor general, Mohammad Movahedi-Azad, described “peaceful livelihood protests” as part of social realities but warned that any attempt to turn economic protests into tools of insecurity or destruction of public property would be met with a response from authorities. The Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) also issued a statement, warning that it would confront any sedition, unrest, or security threat.
Partial Retreat Toward Bazaar Merchants
In an attempt to calm the situation, the government has announced concessions to bazaar merchants, including the suspension of certain tax requirements for up to one year. However, these concessions may not be sufficient to address the underlying issues, and critics argue that they may even anger salaried workers who cannot avoid paying taxes.
Use of Force
Social media reports indicate that an unspecified number of protesters have been detained in recent days, though arrests appear more limited than in comparable protests in past years. While there have been no confirmed reports of security forces firing on protesters in Tehran, security forces have opened fire in other towns, resulting in injuries and potentially fatalities.
Campus Controls and University Shake-Ups
Protests have also reached several universities, where students have chanted anti-government slogans. Following confrontations, the heads of campus security at several universities were dismissed for “a record of misconduct and failure to properly handle recent student protests.” Reformist figures have welcomed these unprecedented dismissals, seeing them as a sign that the government is beginning to recognize the need to address protesters’ concerns.
Conclusion
The current wave of protests in Iran presents a significant challenge to the government. While officials have attempted to respond to the protests with concessions and warnings, it remains to be seen whether these measures will be enough to calm the situation. As the protests continue, the government will need to balance its desire to maintain control with the need to address the underlying economic and social issues that are driving the unrest. Ultimately, the outcome of these protests will depend on the government’s ability to respond to the legitimate concerns of the Iranian people.
