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Protester climbs Iranian embassy balcony in London
A demonstrator accessed the balcony of Iran's embassy in west London on Saturday, removing the national flag as hundreds gathered outside, chanting anti-government slogans and waving flags.
Police response and arrests
The Metropolitan Police confirmed two arrests-one for aggravated trespass and assault on an emergency worker, and another for aggravated trespass. Officers are also searching for a third individual linked to trespassing.
Additional police were deployed earlier in the day to prevent disorder. A statement from the Met noted the protest was ongoing but being "safely policed," with no reports of serious disruption. Officers remain at the scene to secure the embassy.
Flag incident and embassy response
Footage showed the protester tearing down the Iranian flag from the embassy balcony. The embassy later posted an image on X (formerly Twitter) showing the flag restored.
Global protests and demands
Demonstrations against Iran's government have spread worldwide, with crowds outside embassies in multiple cities. In London, protesters held images of Reza Pahlavi, the exiled son of Iran's last monarch, who was overthrown in the 1979 revolution. Many inside Iran have called for his return.
The current unrest began on 28 December over economic grievances but has escalated into the largest protests in years, with demands ranging from regime change to the restoration of the monarchy.
International condemnation and Iranian crackdown
In a joint statement last week, UK Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and French President Emmanuel Macron expressed "deep concern" over reports of violence by Iranian security forces, condemning the killing of protesters.
"The Iranian authorities have a responsibility to protect their population and must allow freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of reprisal."
Joint statement by UK, Germany, and France
Iran's Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, dismissed protesters as "troublemakers" and accused them of serving US interests.
An internet blackout in Iran has hindered reporting, with outlets like the BBC relying on social media and contacts inside the country to verify events.
Protests enter 13th day
Human rights groups report at least 50 protesters killed since demonstrations began. The unrest, initially sparked by economic hardship, has grown into a broader challenge to the Islamic Republic's authority.
