The Hague

Protesters gathered in several European cities on Saturday to express solidarity with ongoing anti-government demonstrations in Iran, as unrest continues amid arrests and an internet blackout, EuroNews reported.

In The Hague, people of Iranian origin assembled at Malieveld, a large public park, voicing concern over their inability to contact family members in Iran due to widespread internet restrictions. Demonstrators said the communications blackout has heightened fears about the safety of loved ones amid the escalating crackdown.

A similar protest was held in Berlin, where demonstrators expressed support for the nearly two-week-long protests, which they described as one of the most serious challenges faced by Iran’s leadership since the 1979 Islamic Revolution, according to EuroNews.

Protesters in the German capital told the broadcaster they hoped international pressure, particularly from Europe and the United States, would help Iranians in their efforts to overthrow the current regime.

Meanwhile, Iran’s military issued a warning that it would defend the country’s “national interests” as protests intensified across the country. In a statement carried by semi-official Iranian news outlets on Saturday, the army alleged that Israel and “hostile terrorist groups” were attempting to destabilise Iran and undermine public security.

“The Army, under the command of the Supreme Commander-in-Chief, together with other armed forces, will resolutely safeguard national interests, strategic infrastructure, and public property,” the statement said.

According to Al Jazeera, the warning came as authorities stepped up efforts to suppress what have been described as the largest protests in Iran in years. Demonstrations were triggered by soaring inflation and the rising cost of living.

Crowds again gathered on Saturday in northern Tehran, setting off fireworks, banging pots, and chanting slogans in support of Iran’s ousted monarchy. Unverified videos circulating online also suggested demonstrations in several other cities, including Rasht, Tabriz, Shiraz and Kerman.

The protests have spread nationwide since late December, with growing calls for an end to the clerical system established after the 1979 Islamic Revolution.

ALSO READ: Kashmir: Naranag offers ensemble of spiritualism, history, nature, and life

Human rights groups have urged restraint amid reports of fatalities and mass arrests. Iran Human Rights said at least 51 protesters, including nine children, were killed by security forces, while hundreds more were injured, Al Jazeera reported.