Across the nation, protestors gathered in response to recent U.S. airstrikes in Iran, showcasing a mixture of opposition to U.S. involvement in further conflicts alongside criticism of Iranian leadership.
Small Protests Erupt Against U.S. Airstrikes on Iran
Small Protests Erupt Against U.S. Airstrikes on Iran
Demonstrations took place in various U.S. cities as citizens express discontent over military actions in Iran.
On Sunday, June 22, 2025, demonstrators rallied in more than a dozen cities across the United States, voicing their opposition to the Trump administration's airstrikes on Iran. The turnout varied significantly; some locations drew hundreds, while others attracted only a few dozen participants. The protests, deemed "emergency mobilizations," were organized quickly on Saturday, particularly following a larger wave of anti-Trump sentiment seen in the prior week's nationwide "No Kings" demonstrations.
In prominent cities like New York, Boston, Chicago, Washington, and Los Angeles, protestors brandished Iranian flags and erected banners bearing messages such as "No War in Iran!" Outside the White House, around 200 protestors, including veterans, gathered to express their dissatisfaction with the President's actions. Veteran Ron Carmichael, 78, criticized the administration's path, equating it to a move toward dictatorship.
Chicago witnessed a similar scene, with roughly 200 individuals rallying against the military actions. Ali Tarokh, who immigrated to the U.S. from Iran after enduring political imprisonment, labeled the airstrikes as catastrophic. He voiced support for gradual reforms in the Iranian government, emphasizing that sudden regime change is unrealistic and counterproductive.
Concerns extend beyond U.S.-Iran relations; many protestors voiced worries about escalating tensions affecting Palestinians, particularly in Gaza. In Los Angeles, Noor Abdel-Haq, a nurse with family ties to the region, expressed her anguish, stating, "We don’t want more murder and destruction." Her peaceful demonstration in Westwood was closely monitored by a small group of Marines.
In Richmond, Virginia, Violeta Vega led a smaller gathering at Abner Clay Park, where participants chanted, "Money for jobs and education, not for war and occupation." Reflecting on the day's events, she noted her sense of empowerment by participating in a collective national movement.
The protests serve as a multifaceted commentary on the complexities of war, governance, and international relations, echoing a call for a more peaceful approach to resolving disputes.
