G7 Criticizes Iran's Response to Protests and Warns of Sanctions
The G7 foreign ministers have issued a strong condemnation of the violence against protesters in Iran, signaling their willingness to implement further sanctions if the Iranian government continues its crackdown.
This statement was released by France, which currently holds the G7 presidency.
The G7 expressed serious concern over the significant number of casualties and injuries, denouncing the use of violence, arbitrary detentions, and intimidation tactics employed by security forces against demonstrators.
In response to these escalating tensions, the United States has begun the evacuation of non-essential personnel from Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. This move follows increasing friction between Washington and Tehran.
The New York Times reported that U.S. officials indicated the Pentagon is relocating some personnel due to the heightened tensions arising from the Iranian government's actions against protesters, with military options under consideration by the U.S. administration.
Meanwhile, Iranian President Masoud Bezhakian acknowledged that the country is facing a "complex war and escalating pressures," stressing the need to gain citizens' trust to alleviate these challenges.
During a cabinet meeting, Bezhakian urged government agencies to enhance their efforts through proactive planning and to take precautionary measures to mitigate negative impacts on citizens across various sectors.
He highlighted that addressing issues related to living conditions and public services should be prioritized amid both internal and external challenges.
These developments occur as tensions rise in the Middle East, with the international community closely monitoring the protests and their implications for regional and global stability.
