SPOKANE, Wash. – A demonstration took place in downtown Spokane on Sunday, where about two dozen people gathered to protest the Iranian government’s actions.
The protest comes amid increasing pressure on Iran’s supreme leader after a 12-day war with Israel and U.S. airstrikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. A U.S.-based rights group reported that the regime’s response to protests has been violent, resulting in at least 646 civilian deaths and more than 10,000 arrests.
Protestors in Spokane displayed signs such as “Digital Blackout in Iran” and “S.O.S.” This highlights the situation in Iran, where internet and phone services have been cut off.
The protesters in Spokane and millions in Iran blame Iran’s leadership for the ongoing violence. The Ayatollah has been criticized for economic struggles and disappearing during U.S. strikes on nuclear sites. Analysts suggest the government’s crackdown and digital blackout have alienated some hardline supporters.
A statement from the protest organizers expressed concern for the situation in Iran. They stated, “We felt a responsibility to be the voice for Iranians who are currently unable to speak freely.”
President Trump has promised to take action if protesters are killed. As of now, he has imposed 25% tariffs on Iran’s trade partners, effective immediately. Despite this, the president mentioned that Iran’s leaders are open to negotiating with the U.S. However, the potential impact on the unrest remains uncertain.
