Iran Faces Internal Calls for Independent Inquiry into Protest Crackdown

Iran is experiencing internal pressure for an independent investigation into the recent suppression of nationwide protests, which have reportedly resulted in significant casualties.

Mohammad Fazeli, a reformist sociologist, expressed deep sorrow over the events, stating, "Iran's history will be entangled with this event for decades, buried under the rubble of this catastrophe."

Ahmad Zeidabadi, a reformist journalist and former political prisoner, advocated for an impartial assessment, asserting, "Only a professional report from the UN's independent jurists can serve as the final arbiter of the contradictory narratives about this national tragedy."

The Reform Front's leader, Azar Mansouri, emphasized the importance of transparency, promising, "We will not allow the blood of these dear ones to be forgotten or the truth to be lost in the dust."

Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani acknowledged the need for inquiries into specific incidents during the protests, marking a potential shift from previous rejections of such investigations by security services.

Vice-President Mohammad Reza Aref has called for explanations regarding the closure of the reformist newspaper Ham-Mihan after it reported on the protests' outcomes.

Economic concerns are also mounting, with reports indicating that food inflation is approaching 200% annually, placing additional strain on the nation's economy.

The University of Tehran's student association expressed their dismay, stating they were "stunned and bewildered as to what has befallen us," and emphasized that those responsible should be held accountable.

Internationally, there are calls for Iran to address its foreign policy stance to alleviate economic pressures. Dr. Javad Salehi, a US-based Iranian economist, suggested that resolving hostilities in foreign policy could improve the country's economic situation.

Former commerce minister Faizullah Arabsorkhi echoed this sentiment, stating, "The authorities must change policies and change the way they deal with the world. The Chinese themselves advise Iran to solve your problems with America."

Abolfazl Ghadyani, an 80-year-old jailed political activist, condemned the suppression of the protests as a crime against humanity, attributing the actions to Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei's directives.

These developments suggest a growing internal debate within Iran regarding the handling of the protests and the country's future direction.