Iran: Activists plan to protest outside Swiss embassy in Tehran Jan. 3

Event

Activists plan to protest outside the Embassy of Switzerland in Tehran from 18:30 Jan. 3 to mark the third death anniversary of Iranian Maj. Gen. Qassem Soleimani. The Swiss embassy serves as the Protecting Power in the absence of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Washington. Hundreds of individuals could attend the demonstration.

Increased security and localized transport disruptions are likely near the Embassy of Switzerland through late Jan. 3. Clashes between police and protesters cannot be ruled out, particularly if demonstrators are overly disruptive or if they ignore police orders to disperse.

Context

The US government killed Soleimani and Iraqi Shi'a militia leader Abu Mahdi al-Muhadis near Baghdad International Airport (BGW) in a drone strike on Jan. 3, 2020. Soleimani was the commander of the Quds Force, which is the external wing of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) that focuses on special and clandestine operations outside Iran. He was the main architect of Iran's military adventures and played a pivotal role in the country's activities in Iraq, Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. The US government justified the killing of Soleimani on the grounds that he was planning further attacks on American assets in Iraq and in the wider region.

Advice

Avoid the protest due to the potential for clashes. Heed the advice of security personnel. Allow additional time if traveling through the affected area Jan. 3.