‘He hoped Trump’s help would arrive’: why protesters in Iran feel betrayed
The Guardian • • nation
Key Points:
- Siavash Shirzad, an Iranian protester, was killed after authorities opened fire during demonstrations, despite former US President Donald Trump’s promise to “rescue” protesters if Iran used lethal force.
- Trump initially encouraged Iranians to continue protesting and promised help was on the way, but later backtracked, stating he had assurances from Iran that no executions would occur and delaying potential military intervention.
- Iranian authorities intensified crackdowns on protesters, including mass arrests, forced confessions, and harsh detention conditions, though executions were temporarily halted, as seen in the cancellation of Erfan Soltani’s death sentence.
- Iranians in the diaspora expressed feelings of betrayal and despair over Trump’s reversal, fearing it represented a victory for the Iranian regime and
