A large demonstration was held in Washington Square Park Sunday in support of Iranians who are fighting against the Islamic Republic.
Chants of “Freedom for Iran!” were heard as some carried signs reading “Zan, Zendigi, Azadi,” or: “Woman, Life, Freedom” — a rallying cry against the regime which has held power in Iran for nearly half-a-century.
“All we’re hoping for is a free and secular Iran that can have democratic elections after 47 years of suffering and oppression,” Nima Poursohi told NBC New York.
The demonstrators in Greenwich Village said they want to show their support for the ongoing uprising in Iran, where protesters have been met with brutal violence. According to a U.S.-based Iranian activist group, more than 3,000 protesters have been killed and more than 22,000 have been arrested.
But reports from inside the country indicate the number of dead is likely much higher. The Iranian government has cut off the internet for 10 days, making independent verification difficult. Many protesters Sunday said they hope the U.S. government steps in.
“We are asking Mr. Trump, the president, please act now,” said Farideh Givehchi. “Because every day, every second that goes by, thousands (of) innocent people are getting killed. Very young ages. It’s just so sad.”
Last week, President Trump urged Iranians to keep protesting, saying: “Help is on the way.” He later backed off the threats.
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