News / Iran
Rival Iran protests unfold metres apart in city centre
Two protests took place less than 50 metres apart in Bristol city centre on Sunday afternoon as rival groups gathered to voice sharply different views on the escalating conflict involving Iran.
Amid dancing, drumming and music, a carnivalesque atmosphere ensued as Iranian monarchists – who support the restoration of the monarchy that ruled Iran before the Iranian Revolution – expressed support for the actions of the United States and Israel and called for “freedom for Iran”.
‘This is not a war – this is a mission to save humanity’, ‘Stop executions’ and ‘Thank you, president Trump’ were among the placards held aloft.
Protesters from the larger displayed a jubilant response to the death of the Iranian supreme leader
Just a stone’s throw away at Cascade Steps, a smaller anti-war counter-protest gathered to “raise awareness and demand that Iran not be subjected to aggression or bombings”.
Organised by Rana Basharat Ali Khan, around 15 demonstrators listened to speeches while waving Iranian flags alongside the Union Jack.
“We are small in number but big in heart. Peace and love,” said one speaker into a microphone.
The smaller demonstration was billed as “a peaceful protest in support of Iran and against aggression”
At several points during the early afternoon, tensions between some members of the two groups briefly flared.
Police officers formed a human barrier to keep the groups apart.
Protesters from both sides could be heard shouting “shame on you” across the divide.
There were some scuffles between the two rival groups
Views among Iranians are deeply polarised between a pro-regime minority that supports the Islamic Republic’s stability and regional policies and others demanding change amid economic hardship and political repression.
The US and Israel are continuing large-scale strikes on Iran, including an attack on an oil depot on Saturday.
Human Rights Activists News Agency says 1,205 civilians have been killed in Iran since February 28 during the unrest.
All photos: Rob Browne
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