Iran has officially expressed its support for the anti-Israeli protests that have been taking place at several prestigious U.S. universities. The protests have led to the arrest of hundreds of students at institutions such as Columbia University, the University of Southern California, MIT, and UT-Austin, among others, due to disruptions of campus activities and trespassing.
Iranian Foreign Minister Hossein Amir-Abdollahian has openly backed the protesters, condemning Israel and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu. He criticized the law enforcement response to the demonstrations and subsequent mass arrests, stating that Iran is deeply concerned and disgusted by the actions taken.
In a translated statement, the foreign minister expressed his dismay at the treatment of professors and students who were protesting against what they perceive as genocide and war crimes committed by the Israeli government. He accused the American police and security forces of suppression and harsh treatment, linking it to the unwavering support that Washington provides to Israel.
Amir-Abdollahian highlighted what he sees as a dual policy and contradictory behavior on the part of the American government regarding freedom of expression. He believes that the crackdown on the protests reflects the U.S.'s alignment with the Israeli regime and its disregard for the right to voice dissent.