Iranian government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated Tuesday that protesters “are our children, and the shedding of even a single drop of blood causes deep sorrow for the government,” as demonstrations continue across the country fueled by economic hardship.
Mohajerani’s comments, posted on the social media platform X, came as Iranian authorities attempt to navigate a resurgence of public discontent. She added that the government intends to prevent the exploitation of demonstrations by specific political factions, and that President Ebrahim Raisi has directed all ministries and government bodies to engage in dialogue with the public and address their concerns.
The protests have been sparked by worsening economic conditions, particularly the sharp increase in foreign currency prices and accelerating inflation. These conditions echo the unrest that began in December and peaked in January, when nationwide demonstrations posed a significant challenge to the country’s clerical leadership, according to reports from earlier this year.
Mohajerani emphasized that whereas protesters have a right to express their grievances, they must be mindful of “red lines,” including respect for sacred symbols and the national flag. This warning followed reports of students burning the Iranian flag during campus protests at universities in Tehran, including Sharif University of Technology and Amir Kabir University of Technology, according to verified videos circulating on social media.
The government’s response has been carefully calibrated, acknowledging the legitimacy of public anger while simultaneously asserting the need for boundaries. Mohajerani acknowledged that students “have wounds in their hearts” and that their anger is understandable, but reiterated the importance of respecting established limits.
The renewed protests began as the new academic semester commenced, with students reviving slogans from the earlier nationwide unrest. The initial wave of protests, which began in December, were initially triggered by economic woes but quickly broadened to encompass wider opposition to the government.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency (HRANA), more than 7,000 deaths were recorded during the crackdown on the January protests, though the agency cautioned that the actual toll is likely much higher. The government has not released official figures regarding casualties.
The Iranian government’s warning to protesters comes amid ongoing pressure from the international community, including threats of US military action related to Iran’s nuclear program. The situation remains fluid, with no immediate indication of a resolution to the economic crisis or a de-escalation of political tensions.
