A mass gathering of people in Tehran demonstrated in Enghelab Square to protest against the actions of armed rioters and terrorists in killing people, destroying public and private properties, and creating chaos and insecurity.

Why it matters:

Authorities in Tehran describe the recent incidents as the most significant terrorist operations carried out against Iran in recent years, actions they directly attribute to U.S. and Israeli support for anti-government groups.

State of play:

A new wave of unrest has swept through Iran in recent days. What began as economically driven protests in Tehran’s Grand Bazaar was quickly exploited by hostile groups, according to Iranian authorities.

Armed militants and rioters used the unrest as cover to launch attacks. These groups carried out terrorist operations that resulted in multiple civilian deaths.

Vandals targeted mosques, banks, and public facilities, causing extensive damage in several cities.

Between the lines:

The escalation reflects a shift in strategy by Washington and Tel Aviv after their failed attempts to provoke political unrest or destabilize the Islamic Republic through media and diplomatic pressure.

Iran says the current wave of violence shows an effort to manufacture internal chaos through armed attacks and coordinated vandalism.

Go deeper:

Iranian Hold Rallies to Denounce Recent Zionist-Backed Unrest

M.Majdi - Hossein Vaez