> At a Glance
> – Dozens of Iranian Americans protested outside Sherman Oaks Galleria Friday
> – 40+ reported dead as nationwide protests spread across Iran
> – Internet blackout and international call blocks now in effect
> – Why it matters: LA hosts the world’s largest Iranian diaspora, making local rallies a key voice for those silenced at home
Iranian Americans gathered in Los Angeles Friday to amplify the cries coming from their homeland, where anti-government protests have left more than 40 people dead and triggered a sweeping internet blackout.
Local Voices for Silenced Protesters
Tima, whose entire family remains in Iran, joined dozens outside the Sherman Oaks Galleria to speak for those who cannot.
> “I’m here to be their voice. I know you don’t have your voice right now because the regime shut down your voice. I’m saying regime change in Iran.”
The demonstrations erupted after decades of political repression and a collapsing economy. Ayatollah Ali Khamenei responded by shutting down internet access and blocking international phone calls.
Economic Collapse Fuels Unrest
Benjamin Radd, a UCLA International Institute professor, points to hyperinflation as the spark.
- Iranian currency devaluing rapidly
- Shopkeepers’ purchasing power dropping between Friday payday and Monday
- Wealth concentrated among elite while middle and working classes struggle
Trump Threatens Response
President Donald Trump warned of military action if crackdowns continue.
> “I told them, if they do anything bad to these people, we’re going to hit them very hard.”
Khamenei accused protesters of acting on Trump’s behalf, claiming they were “ruining their own streets to make the president of another country happy.”
Diaspora Hopes for US Intervention
Some demonstrators, including Mohammed Adeli who fled Iran in 1985, want American involvement.
> “I’m worried about all the young people, old people, the situation in Iran. Iran is a really rich country. And right now, we are at the stage that everybody is poor.”
Organizers expect the largest local protest Sunday at 2 p.m. outside the downtown LA federal building.
Key Takeaways
- LA’s Iranian diaspora, the world’s largest outside Iran, is mobilizing daily protests
- Economic freefall with hyperinflation driving working-class anger
- Internet blackout aims to prevent protest coordination and news flow
- Trump threatens military response if violence against protesters continues
The weekend rally comes as Iran faces what many call the biggest challenge to the regime in years, with LA demonstrators vowing to keep speaking for those silenced at home.
