S. Africa is worried about Iran’s protests
“Sustainable peace and stability can only be achieved through solutions that center the agency of the Iranian people,” the statement said, emphasizing the importance of citizens’ involvement in shaping outcomes.
Pretoria specifically called on Iranian authorities to protect the right of citizens to engage in peaceful demonstrations, responding to reports of unrest and fatalities described as “concerning.” The ministry highlighted that the rights to peaceful protest, freedom of expression, and freedom of association are universal human rights that “must be upheld without exception.”
The statement comes amid heightened international attention, with US leadership publicly pledging support for Iranian protesters. Authorities in Tehran have accused both Washington and Israel of supporting what they describe as “riots” and “terrorism,” amid tensions and speculation over potential US military actions.
Estimates from the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency indicate that at least 2,615 people, including both protesters and security personnel, have died during the unrest. Iranian officials have yet to release official casualty or detention figures.
The protests began on December 28 in Tehran’s commercial districts, when merchants and small business owners staged strikes against rising inflation, the collapsing rial, and worsening economic conditions. They have since escalated into nationwide anti-government demonstrations involving workers, students, and citizens across multiple cities.
Legal Disclaimer:
MENAFN provides the
information “as is” without warranty of any kind. We do not accept
any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images,
videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information
contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright
issues related to this article, kindly contact the provider above.
Legal Disclaimer:
EIN Presswire provides this news content "as is" without warranty of any kind. We do not accept any responsibility or liability for the accuracy, content, images, videos, licenses, completeness, legality, or reliability of the information contained in this article. If you have any complaints or copyright issues related to this article, kindly contact the author above.
