Iranians using #iamthe15th4Iran on twitter and other social media, protesting the arrest of 14 Iranian activists who called for resignation of Islamic Republic’s supreme leader, Ali Khamenei.
A group of fourteen political, civil and human rights activists based in Iran sent an open letter in July to Khamenei, expressing their serious concern about human rights violation in Iran and the growing power of the Supreme Leader and asked him to step down.
“Saed Ali Khamenei, the arrests of these activists show your weakness,” said an Iranian woman in a video published on social media. “If your power is legitimate…, then why are you afraid? Leave Iran before people kick you out of the country with humiliation.”
“They have demonstrated an amazing bravery in challenging the dictatorship. I am the 15th too!” tweeted another Iranian user.
“These 14 Brave people called for resignation of Khamenei and a peaceful transition toward freedom and democracy. And you know what happened to them? Torture! Beating up! Jail! Threatening!” read another tweet.
Some of the users criticized the silence of other Iranians regarding the arrest of the activists, urging people to speck up for their rights.
Posting a Ukrainian protester photo who stands against anti-riot police alone, Sybarite tweeted: “Keep in mind, after the arrest of these 14 activists, it’s your turn to express yourself…”
Several other users blamed Sweden for receiving Iranian Foreign Minister Javad Zarif, while the government is oppressing the activists.
“While the European leaders rolling out red carpet for Javad Zarif, the Liar FM of Khamenei’s brutal regime, any act of resistance toward corrupt clerical rule is savagely repressed in Iran & the freedom seekers are being arrested, jailed or vanished!” tweeted Iran Apple Valley.
