In a dramatic escalation of international solidarity with protesters inside Iran, hundreds of demonstrators forced their way into the Iranian embassy in London, tearing down the official flag of the Islamic Republic and hoisting the historic Lion and Sun emblem.
Embassy Stormed as Protests Enter 13th Night
The bold act in the UK capital unfolded on Saturday, coinciding with the 13th consecutive night of major anti-government demonstrations across Iran. The country remains largely isolated from the global internet due to an extensive communications blackout imposed by authorities.
Those gathered outside the Knightsbridge embassy told 7NEWS the situation had reached a critical point, with many unable to contact friends and family back home for days. "Iran is in revolution right now. Iran is totally in revolution," one protester declared, appealing for global support.
Demonstrators described a regime in its weakest position since the 1979 revolution, with one stating, "My country is occupied by a terrorist regime for 47 years, and it's time to end that."
Crackdown Intensifies as Death Toll Rises
The internal unrest, which began on December 28 amid anger over economic collapse and soaring inflation, has evolved into a direct challenge to Iran's theocratic leadership. The response has been a severe and escalating crackdown.
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, the death toll from the protest violence has reached at least 116 people, with more than 2600 arrests. Iranian Attorney General Mohammad Movahedi Azad warned that protesters could face the charge of "enemy of God," which carries the death penalty.
Despite official claims that calm had returned, verified footage shows thousands still protesting in Tehran, chanting "Death to Khamenei," referencing Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei. State media has acknowledged casualties among security forces.
Global Reactions and Internal Blackout
Protests in support have spread across Europe, with rallies in Berlin and London. European leaders have condemned the violence, while US President Donald Trump posted on Truth Social that "Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!"
Inside Iran, the situation remains dire. Protesters in London reported deliberate power cuts in parts of the country, with millions protesting in darkness. One claimed they were chanting for the return of Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last Shah, who has called for a revolt to topple the clerical rulers.
A doctor in northwestern Iran reported hospitals receiving large numbers of injured protesters, some with severe beatings and gunshot wounds. The Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) accused "terrorists" of attacking security bases and said safeguarding the Islamic revolution was a "red line."
With airlines cancelling flights and fears mounting over the violence hidden by the internet blackout, demonstrators in London said they felt compelled to take symbolic action, highlighting a crisis they say the world can no longer ignore.
