Rallies Held in Iran to Condemn Violent Riots
TEHRAN (Tasnim) – Iranians took to the streets across the country on Friday to condemn desecration of Islamic sanctities and acts of vandalism by rioters in the past few days.
The rallies, according to a statement by the Coordinating Council of Iran's Islamic Propagation Organization, condemn "disruptive measures of few mercenaries and deceived individuals who insulted the sanctity of the Holy Quran and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), set fire to a number of mosques and sacred flag of the Islamic Republic of Iran, assaulted the hijab of women, vandalized public properties, and undermined the security of people," Press TV reported.
The statement comes as street violence has erupted in the country after the death of Mahsa Amini, 22, in a hospital days after she was detained by police.
Despite clarification on circumstances surrounding the death of Amini, violent protests have led to attacks on security officers and acts of vandalism against public property as well as police vehicles and ambulances.
Iranian Health Ministry announced on Thursday that over 60 ambulances have been destroyed during the riots in several cities.
Describing the attacks on ambulances as an inhumane act and demanding that rioters be held accountable, the ministry said the move had disrupted emergency health services and the treatment process of patients.
Meanwhile, at least five security personnel have been killed while trying to confront riots in Mashhad, Quchan, Shiraz, Tabriz, and Karaj. According to reports, several other security forces have been injured.
In a statement on Thursday evening, Iran’s Intelligence Ministry warned rioters, noting that people’s participation in such gatherings is illegal and could result in judicial prosecution.