Explosions reported near Tehran during pro-Palestinian rally

A woman has been killed in an explosion at a rally in Tehran’s Ferdowsi Square, where thousands were gathered to participate in the annual al-Quds Day march. The event, held on Friday, coincided with ongoing US-Israeli attacks across the nation for the 14th consecutive day.

According to Iranian state television, a large midday explosion occurred in the square, causing multiple casualties. Press TV reported that one woman was killed due to shrapnel from an airstrike, although no further details were provided.

The cause of the blast is currently unknown, but it came shortly after Israel had warned people to clear the area due to planned strikes. The incident has raised concerns among protesters, who have been demonstrating in Tehran and other cities despite ongoing US and Israeli attacks in the region.

Al Jazeera Arabic reported that an air strike was heard near a gathering of protesters in Tehran, although the exact location and potential casualties are unclear. The event, which marks support for Palestine and opposition to the Israeli occupation of Palestinian territories, has drawn high-profile attendees including Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Ali Larijani, secretary of the Supreme National Security Council.

Demonstrators at the rally chanted slogans such as “Death to Israel” and “Death to America,” while carrying Iranian flags and images of Palestinian fighters. The event was also marked by banners bearing political and religious slogans expressing solidarity with Jerusalem and the Palestinian people.

Source: Al Jazeera