Iran: Protest scheduled in Tabriz, further likely in Tehran on January 14 /update 6

Event

At least one protest has been scheduled in Tabriz on Tuesday, January 14, as students and others continue to show opposition to the downing of a Ukranian Airlines plane the week prior. Students have called for a protest at the Tabriz Islamic Art University as of 13:00 (local time). Protests are expected to continue in Tehran for a fourth day following the government announcement claiming responsibility for the fatal plane attack.

Reports emerged on Monday, January 13, of authorities using teargas despite official orders asking police to show restraint. The United Nations released a report indicating that the reports of violence against protesters is "worrying."

In response to the protests, the Iranian government stated it has arrested people for their role in the plane crash. President Rouhani has since called the incident an 'unforgivable error.' Protests, as well as a heightened security presence and significant transportation disruptions, are to be expected over the coming several hours in Tehran. Protests remain possible in other urban centers across the country.

Context

Iran's Foreign Minister Javad Zarif announced on January 11 that the incident was due to "human error" after the plane flew too close to a Revolutionary Guards' military site. The plane crashed near the Tehran suburb of Parand shortly after taking off from Imam Khomeini International Airport (IKA) at approximately 06:12 on January 8. None of the 176 passengers and crew members on board survived the crash.

Advice

Individuals in Iran are advised to monitor the situation, avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution, anticipate localized disruption, and obey all instructions issued by local authorities and their home governments.