IRAN: 22 Bahman videos show security forces on alert, opposition calls for release of prisoners

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Video accounts from the streets on 22 Bahman continue to be uploaded to YouTube each minute. Clashes between security forces and opposition supporters have been reported in Tehran and confrontations are also said to be taking place in other Iranian cities, including Isfahan, where opposition supporters are said to be staging rallies.

The clip below shows brief outbursts of panic in a crowd of demonstrators.

A heavy security presence has been reported from today’s demonstrations. Military helicopters are said to continue circling over some areas of Tehran while security forces on the ground continue to be on high alert.

Here’s a clip showing Iranian police officers positioned in a busy street.

And in this video, anti-riot forces are seen riding motorbikes.

Despite heavy restrictions and stern warnings from the authorities, opposition supporters appear to remain defiant. In this clip, a group of them are seen are chanting a famous old anti-government slogan, saying the tanks and the pro-government Basij militia ‘no longer have an effect’ on them. Some have placed green surgical masks over their mouths to avoid identification while still advertising their political views.

A specific demand voiced by the protesters today towards the authorities is the release of Iranian political prisoners from jail.

Here is a group calling for the prisoners’ release while holding up green banners.

Videos: Scenes of protests on 22 Bahman. Credit: YouTube.