Iranian Police Squash Protests

The Iranians who took to the streets of Tehran yesterday for what was supposed to be a major protest met with thousands of security forces armed with clubs, tear gas, and Tasers, who broke up the gatherings, witnesses tell the Washington Post. There were also unconfirmed reports of gunshots, and opposition groups claim that at least two people were killed. Police, meanwhile, say they arrested a man carrying explosives.

“There are only small clashes and few slogans against the system,” said one office worker. “Still some main streets are very crowded, both with protesters and just as many security forces.” But opposition websites called the demonstrations a success, saying the “widespread but unconcentrated” protests “created hassles, disorganization, and frustration for police.” The weekend also saw authorities install a metal door on Hossein Mousavi’s home, apparently imprisoning him within. (More Iran stories.)