US to impose ‘further costs’ on Iran for violence against protesters

Washington, Oct 3 (EFE).- The United States will this week impose “further costs” on those committing violence against peaceful protesters in Iran, President Joe Biden said Monday.

“I remain gravely concerned about reports of the intensifying violent crackdown on peaceful protesters in Iran, including students and women, who are demanding their equal rights and basic human dignity,” he said in a statement.

The president said the protesters are asking for nothing more than “just and universal principles” contained in the United Nations Charter and the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

“For decades, Iran’s regime has denied fundamental freedoms to its people and suppressed the aspirations of successive generations through intimidation, coercion, and violence,” he added.

He affirmed that his country stands with “Iranian women and all the citizens of Iran who are inspiring the world with their bravery.”

Some of the main universities in Tehran Monday morning had a strong presence of riot police after they became the center of protests over the death of Mahsa Amini more than two weeks ago.

In the universities of Tehran and Amir Kabir, in the center of the capital, there were dozens of riot police and police vans to prevent protests over the death of Amini in custody on Sep. 16 after being detained by the morality police for wearing her hijab incorrectly.

In recent weeks, the US has sanctioned the morality police for the death of Amini and seven high-ranking security officials for the repression of the demonstrations.

In addition, Washington authorized technology companies to expand their services in Iran, in response to internet cuts ordered by Tehran to stop the protests.

“This week, the United States will be imposing further costs on perpetrators of violence against peaceful protesters,” Biden said.

“We will continue holding Iranian officials accountable and supporting the rights of Iranians to protest freely.” EFE

sa/tw