Iran: Calls for further protests in Tehran, other cities January 15 /update 7

Event

Anti-government protests are set to continue in Tehran and other urban centers on Wednesday, January 15, in efforts to continue showing opposition to the downing of a Ukrainian Airlines plane the week prior. Rallies have taken place daily, often led by students and artists, encouraging nationwide demonstrations. Reports continue to emerge of violent repression by police, reportedly using electric batons and teargas.

Transportation disruptions and a heightened security presence are expected in the vicinity of all protests. Clashes cannot be ruled out.

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.