30 People Arrested in Tehran on Charges of "Disturbing Public Order"

SadaNews - Iranian authorities have arrested 30 people in Tehran on charges of "disturbing public order," according to the Tasnim News Agency on Thursday evening, marking the fifth day of protests in Iran against rising living costs, some of which have turned into violent clashes.

The agency reported that after a coordinated operation between security and intelligence agencies, 30 individuals who were "disturbing public order" in Malard, west of Tehran, were identified, stating that they were arrested last night, Wednesday.

It added, "These individuals attempted to destabilize the situation."

This occurred as the death toll from clashes between protesters and security forces in southwestern Iran rose to 5 on Thursday.

Protesters in the city of Lordegan, located about 650 kilometers from Tehran, began throwing stones at administrative buildings, including the governor's office, a mosque, the Martyrs' Foundation, the municipality, and several banks, before heading towards the governor's office.

The police used tear gas, according to reports from Fars News Agency.

It is worth noting that the Iranian government has addressed the unrest with an offer for dialogue.

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated on Thursday that the authorities will engage in direct dialogue with representatives of trade unions and merchants, without disclosing further details.

For his part, President Masoud Bezhakian said he has asked the Minister of Interior to listen to the "legitimate demands" of the protesters.

Meanwhile, the Iranian economy has suffered for years due to the American and Western sanctions imposed on Tehran over its nuclear program.

The latest protests represent the largest unrest experienced in the country since the widespread protests three years ago.