Tehran’s pro-government rally for Ayatollah Khamenei unfolded dramatically as Iran battles week three of deadly protests. Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, alongside President Masoud Pezeshkian, addressed throngs, reinforcing solidarity amid chaos that’s felled 544 lives and ensnared 10,000-plus, rights monitors say.
Energizing the crowd, Araghchi proclaimed, ‘People’s support empowers us. Stay mighty on-site; we’re there too.’ The demonstration counters surging opposition, marked by fierce confrontations.
Shifting to diplomacy, Araghchi met envoys, alleging U.S.-Israeli plots with hard evidence. ‘Documents confirm their terror involvement and Mossad aides for Farsi-speaking saboteurs,’ he revealed post-clashes that claimed many lives.
Iran’s stance is clear: ‘No desire for war, but total preparedness. We’re game for balanced talks with parity and honor.’ This blend of public fervor and pointed blame aims to delegitimize dissent as foreign-fomented.
Observers note the rallies’ role in projecting control, yet escalating casualties paint a volatile picture. As arrests balloon, the regime faces tests on legitimacy, with international eyes on potential diplomatic rifts and internal fractures.