Iran: Rallies expected on Al-Quds Day June 23

Event

International Al-Quds Day will be celebrated on Friday, June 23, in many Shi’a Muslim communities. Rallies are expected, as Shi’as typically gather on this day to hold anti-Israel protests, condemning Israel’s treatment of Palestinians. Massive rallies in observation of Al-Quds Day are expected and are generally peaceful. However, gatherings do have the potential to turn violent. Rallies could take the form of generalized protests against the West.

Context

Al-Quds Day was initiated by Iran in 1979 in opposition to Israel’s Jerusalem Day. Iran sponsors Al-Quds Day rallies and protests in both Muslim-majority and non-Muslim-majority countries. It falls every year on the last Friday of the holy month of Ramadan.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to avoid any form of protest or public gathering, to monitor the situation closely, and to expect traffic disruptions.