Calm returns to Tehran streets

[joeblow]

Calm returns to Tehran streets
Sun, 21 Jun 2009 05:21:50 GMT

http://www.presstv.com/detail/98649.htm ... =351020101


Sporadic clashes were reported between security forces and the protesters.

Calm has returned to the streets of Iranian capital of Tehran which were the scene of violent riots on Saturday over the June 12 election results.

Police officials said they have successfully managed to restore security in the main streets of Tehran, including Azadi Avenue and Enqelab Square, after eight consecutive days of sporadic street protests.

Supporters of defeated candidate Mir-Hossein Mousavi have rejected President Ahmadinejad's decisive win in the June 12 election and have staged a torrent of illegal rallies ever since.

The Interior Ministry said no permission had been granted to Reformist groups to hold a rally on Saturday.

Iran's deputy police commander, on Saturday, warned against the mass gatherings, asserting that those who participate in any such measures would be met with a severe reprimand.

Despite the clear warning by the police, protestors took to the streets on Saturday to demonstrate against what they alleged to be lack of governmental action against voting irregularities.

Police used batons, tear gas, and water cannons to break up the rioters -- who reportedly set fire on a mosque and a number of vehicles.

The heavy clashes reportedly led to a number of injuries.

The Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyyed Ali Khamenei, has stressed that the vandals are not in any way related to the presidential candidates and their supporters.

However, Ayatollah Khamenei on Friday demanded an end to street protests and urged all candidates to pursue their complaints through legal channels and not street protests.

Meanwhile, defeated candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi who refused to show up to an earlier meeting of the Guardian Council has written a letter to the body repeating his claims of election-related irregularities.

SBB/DT