The Islamic Republic of Iran is experiencing widespread protests, with reports indicating over 200 deaths and 2,600 arrested.
The government has accused Israel’s Mossad of infiltrating the country, sparking the unrest.
The protests, initially triggered by economic grievances, have evolved into a broader challenge to the theocratic system.
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The Iranian government has shut down the internet and cut international phone lines, limiting information flow.
The US has expressed support for the protesters, while Iran’s Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei has warned of severe consequences for those involved.
Meanwhile, Israel’s Heritage Minister Amichai Eliyahu has said that Israeli agents are operating inside Iran sparked by the collapse of the rial and a deepening economic crisis.
Speaking to Israel’s Army Radio, Eliyahu said Israel had deployed operatives on the ground during a 12-day war with Iran last June and suggested similar activity is currently taking place.
He said Israeli forces were able to operate inside Iran during the operation known as Rising Lion and had prepared the ground for strikes.
Eliyahu asserted that Israeli personnel are currently active in the country, though he did not provide details.
The Israeli minister said the agents are not working to overthrow the Iranian government but to weaken Iran’s ability to pose a threat to Israel, stressing that their actions are focused on limiting Iran’s capabilities rather than pursuing regime change.
CASUALTIES AND DESTRUCTION
In the same vein, figures according to Tehran’s fire department chief said more than 50 heavy emergency vehicles, including fire engines, have been damaged throughout Iran, with eight fire trucks rendered completely inoperable.
The Tasnim news agency reported that in Tehran, rioters torched fire engines while they were responding to a residential blaze, blocking crews from reaching the scene.
Others according the figures, specialized emergency equipment was looted from response vehicles.
In Mashhad, a fire station and all its equipment were completely destroyed.
In Isfahan, 15 emergency vehicles were damaged.
In Ahvaz, 5 vehicles were targeted.
In Shiraz, a fire station was set ablaze.
In Izeh, the Red Crescent building was set on fire.
Additionally, Tehran’s mayor announces that over $18 million in damage has been inflicted on civilian property.