Thousands rally in Iran against Trump
tehran — Millions of Iranians marched on the anniversary of the 1979 Islamic revolution on Friday in what the president described as a response to the new US administration and a rejection of “threatening language”.
President Hasan Rohani joined hundreds of thousands at an anniversary march through the capital, one of dozens of such events around the country.
“This turnout is a response to false remarks by the new rulers in the White House and the people are telling the world through their presence that the Iranian people must be spoken to with respect,” Rohani said.
“Iranians will make those using threatening language against this nation regret it.
“Anyone threatening Iran’s government and armed forces should know that our nation is vigilant.”
US President Donald Trump has taken an increasingly strident line towards Iran since taking office last month, warning that it was “playing with fire” and “on notice”.
Last week, he imposed sanctions on Iran over a January 29 ballistic missile test and officials warned more might follow.
Last weekend, new Pentagon chief James Mattis described Iran as “the single biggest state sponsor of terrorism in the world”.
Placards bearing slogans against Trump were brandished by the marchers as they weaved their way through the streets of the capital in the wintry fog to the central Azadi (Freedom) Square.
One placard showed a caricature of Trump being punched by a hand wearing a bracelet of the Iranian flag. “Thanks Mr. Trump for revealing true face of the US,” said another placard.
“Iranians are not scared of threats,” said another, bearing the faces of Trump, British Prime Minister Theresa May and her Israeli counterpart Benjamin Netanyahu.
At Friday’s marches, the traditional “Down with America” slogans were everywhere.
Some marchers made a distinction between the American people and the Trump regime and carried
this turnout is a response to false remarks by the new rulers in the White House and the people are telling the world through their presence that the Iranian people must be spoken to with respect Hasan Rohani, Iran President
placards thanking those who had opposed the president’s controversial visa ban on the citizens of Iran and six other predominantly Muslim countries.
“Down with US regime, long live American people,” said one placard in English. “Thanks American people for supporting Muslims,” said another. “American people are welcome and invited to visit Iran,” said a third. The posters were following a Twitter hashtag #LoveBeyondFlags started by Iranian users to thank Americans who protested against the visa ban. — AFP