Iran’s streets remain a battleground of dissent, with anti-Khamenei demonstrations showing no signs of abating despite a government-imposed internet blackout. Amid this turmoil, Japanese Prime Minister Sane Takaiichi issued an urgent appeal for all parties to pursue peaceful dialogue over violence.
Takaiichi’s statement painted a grim picture of the human cost: numerous civilians dead or injured in clashes with security forces. ‘Japan opposes violence against peaceful protesters in the strongest terms,’ she declared, underscoring Tokyo’s distress at the reports.
Optimism tempered her critique, as she anticipated a quick, amicable settlement. Japan will spare no effort in securing its expatriates, she assured.
Parallel developments saw President Trump amplify the pressure. In a Friday briefing, he depicted Iran as teetering on the brink, with protesters boldly occupying key urban centers. ‘Iran’s in big trouble—no one imagined this a few weeks ago,’ he said, hinting at potential military repercussions.
While wishing safety to the demonstrators, Trump stressed the perilous environment. Khamenei’s televised sermon countered with calls for solidarity against ‘terrorist’ incursions, while authorities pinned blame on US machinations and readied a harsh response.
The convergence of these voices highlights the high stakes: a nation convulsed by popular fury, squeezed between domestic repression and foreign scrutiny. Takaiichi’s measured tone offers a counterpoint to Trump’s saber-rattling, potentially paving paths to de-escalation.