In a striking display of loyalty amid ongoing airstrikes, thousands gathered in Tehran's Enghelab Square on Monday to pledge allegiance to Mojtaba Khamenei, Iran's newly appointed supreme leader. As the nation grapples with the fallout from the assassination of his father, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, crowds carried banners emblazoned with his image and chanted fervently against the United States and Israel. This show of support comes as many Iranians express growing fears of increased repression under the new regime.
Mass Gatherings Amid Chaos
Even as airstrikes targeted various parts of Tehran, large crowds congregated in the iconic Enghelab Square to demonstrate their allegiance to Mojtaba Khamenei, who has ascended to power following his father's death. Holding portraits of both the late Ayatollah Ali Khamenei and the new leader, supporters shouted slogans including, "Death to America" and "Death to Israel." State media broadcast similar scenes from cities across the country, depicting a united front amid the turmoil. Originally reported by The Guardian.
However, this fervor sharply contrasts with the sentiments expressed just nine days prior when many took to the streets in celebration of the late Khamenei's assassination in a joint US-Israeli strike. This event has stirred deep resentment among the populace, many of whom blame the former leader for decades of oppression and brutal crackdowns on dissent. The juxtaposition of the two events highlights the stark divisions within Iranian society as it faces a critical juncture.
Fears of Escalating Repression
Despite the show of support for Mojtaba Khamenei, there are undercurrents of dissent. Videos circulating on social media prior to the announcement of his leadership showed people in Tehran chanting "Death to Mojtaba," reflecting widespread apprehension about the future. An internet blackout initiated by the regime has hindered communication, but some Iranians have managed to send messages abroad, revealing a populace wary of the new leadership.
Nima, a 21-year-old student from Mashhad, expressed concerns about the potential for increased repression. "People for now are waiting to see if Trump will assassinate him," he said, referencing a statement from the former US president that hinted at potential action against the new leader if he deemed it necessary. Mojtaba Khamenei, 56, is closely linked to the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), raising fears that his leadership will be characterized by an even harsher security environment.
Security Forces and the Public Response
In the wake of these events, the atmosphere in Iran has become increasingly tense. Reports indicate that security forces have been patrolling the streets aggressively, chanting "God is great." Farzad, a 26-year-old anti-government protester in Tehran, described the heightened presence of regime forces, suggesting they are fueled by anger over the loss of their leader. "He lost his family and he will definitely consider protesters responsible for this war," he said, referring to the ongoing conflict and its implications for dissenters.
As the regime continues its crackdown, the prosecutor general has issued a stark warning to Iranians abroad, threatening severe consequences for any perceived cooperation with US or Israeli interests. This indicates a broader strategy to stifle dissent and maintain control at a time when the nation is under siege.
Mixed Signals from Supporters and Critics
Mojtaba Khamenei's supporters view his appointment as a continuation of his father's legacy. University student Zahra Mirbagheri, 21, remarked that his leadership is "a slap in the face to our enemies who thought the system will collapse with the killing of his father." However, critics are quick to point out the regime's reliance on a narrative rooted in the 1979 revolution, which initially sought to overthrow a pro-Western monarchy.
One activist in Tehran sarcastically dubbed Mojtaba the new "crown prince," highlighting the irony of the situation. "Kudos to the US president for the success of another mission impossible," they said. "We are being taken for fools, and the show has just begun." Such sentiments underscore the uncertainty and skepticism surrounding the future of Iran under its new leadership.
As the situation in Iran unfolds, the responses from both supporters and opponents of the regime illustrate a nation deeply divided. With tensions high and fears of intensified repression looming, the path ahead remains fraught with challenges as Mojtaba Khamenei seeks to consolidate power amidst a turbulent backdrop.
Originally reported by The Guardian. View original.