23 Dec 2021 | 02:47 PM UTC
Iran: Clashes between security forces and teachers occur in Tehran and other major cities late Dec. 23 /update 1
Security forces employ tear gas to disperse teachers in ongoing nationwide protests in Iran late Dec. 23. Avoid all demonstrations.
Event
Security forces have clashed with teachers in urban centers, particularly in major cities like Tehran, Shiraz, and Mashhad, late Dec. 23. Police officers are reportedly employing tear gas and other crowd control measures to disperse the protesters. Thousands of teachers have been demonstrating nationwide in recent weeks to demand higher salaries and improved employee benefits.
The main protest site in Tehran has been outside the country's Parliament. Additional protests are likely outside education departments, government buildings, and other prominent demonstration sites in the coming days. Hundreds to thousands of individuals could attend the demonstrations.
Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near gathering sites, especially near Parliament in Tehran. Further clashes between protesters and security forces cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or ignore police orders to disperse.
Advice
Avoid all protests as a standard security precaution. Exercise caution near known or likely protest locations. Monitor local media for protest activity, as organizers may not announce plans in advance. Plan for increased security and localized transport disruptions near demonstrations; confirm the availability of transport and allow additional time to reach destinations. Follow all instructions issued by local authorities.