Iran's suffering and it's not the first time.

Over the past few weeks social media and major news outlets have informed the public of the crisis and tragedy arising in Iran. What started off as a peaceful protest over the rise in fuel prices, soon became a violent massacre resulting in the death of almost 200 of the protesters.

Iran Protests 2019 - Source: VOA News

While what is going in Iran is extremely sad and tragic it is important to note that the mainstream media has only just started to cover what is going on. The people of Iran are faced with a lack of economic and political support from the government on a day to day basis. They have been suffering under the corruption of their own government that has led the country into high inflation with the prices of medicine, regular food and goods increasing by nearly a tenfold. These basic items increasing in price has made it extremely difficult for citizens to live in peace and comfort.

Iran & USA meeting to discuss Nuclear Trade Deal - Source: Council on Foreign Relations

In addition, the US government's economic sanctions have caused suffering to the country for decades. Recently, the issue has worsened as the US pulled out of the Iran deal which had promised economic relief with the agreement that Iran would not develop any nuclear weapons. They have used this situation to pull out of diplomatic talks with Iran in order to reach a solution. It is crucial to note that what is happening in Iran is not purely at the hands of the Republicans, as there are both Republicans and Democrats who support US imperialistic foreign policy and fully support on taking advantage of Iran now that the country is frail and vulnerable, and manipulating the situation to replace the regime with one that will allow the US to access as much oil as it pleases without owing anything to Iran.

The protest which was sparked over the increase in gas prices with protesters demanding an end to the Islamic Republic's government, resulted in security forces shooting at unarmed protesters. There were at least 2000 people killed and an additional 7,000 people who were arrested. The protest has been recorded as 'Iran's worst political unrest since the Islamic revolution in 1979.' 

The only way a fair solution can happen is at the hands of the people of Iran. As a democracy Iran deserve their basic human right to decide a solution in their best interests without the influence of the US government. It's crucial that we don't lose our humanity when looking at a different country. The pain and suffering that Iran is currently going through should resonate with any individual from any country, and for that reason alone we should support Iran and their right to protest in peace for what they believe is best for their country.

Pass on the message,

Miss Minority