Iranian Government Pursues Retaliation Post-Protests, Declares Calm Restored

The Iranian authorities have launched a campaign of intimidation aimed at silencing those who backed the recent demonstrations, following a brutal crackdown that has reportedly left many dead. Thousands are under detention for their involvement in the unrest, and the government seems determined to quash any future dissent by targeting supporters.

These retaliatory efforts are not just aimed at individuals but also extend to economic sanctions against businesses linked with protest participation. A notable casualty of this crackdown is Mohammad Saedinia.

Saedinia, known in Tehran for his popular chain of confectioneries and cafes frequented by the city's younger, more liberal residents, as well as a shopping center in Qom, found himself in the regime's crosshairs. His arrest was announced by regional justice authorities in Qom, who accused him of inciting chaos.

The basis for his apprehension appears to be his decision to shut down his establishments at the start of the protests, aligning himself with Tehran's bazaar merchants protesting the sharp devaluation of the national currency.

Initially fueled by economic grievances, these demonstrations quickly evolved into nationwide protests against the ruling Islamic regime. The semi-official news outlet Tasnim has reported the revocation of Saedinia's business licenses and the closure of his stores.

The Attorney General, echoing the language of state media, has labeled the protesters as "terrorists" and commands the confiscation of any assets tied to them, aiming to deliver a stern warning to the country's business community to resume normal operations.

A lingering threat against the regime comes from potential actions by President Trump, who has implied plans to act against Iranian leadership, though specifics remain unknown. In response, Iran has warned of possible attacks on U.S. military locations in the region while simultaneously attempting to convey a sense of stability.

Iranian media and insider sources maintain that the unrest was a foreign-orchestrated endeavor that failed. Government forces claim calm has been restored, downplaying casualty reports as exaggerated and fictitious.