Vowing to do “whatever we can to get rid of that regime,” local Iranians took the cause to the streets of Midtown East on Sunday. One demonstrator told NBC New York “We are here doing our best to be the voice of Iranians who are suppressed under the ayatollahs.”
Earlier in the day, outside the Metropolitan Museum of Art, dozens rallied, chanting messages like “political prisoners must be free!”
“Everyone here is wishing for the downfall of the Islamic Republic and we’re seeking intervention. You know, we view this, what Trump is doing in Iran as a rescue mission,” explained Navid Tofigh. “I think at this time it’s clear that Reza Pahlavi has the support of the Iranian people to lead the transition.” Pahlavi is the son of the last shah.
Some in the crowd hid their identities. One demonstrator who declined to be identified told NBC New York, “While we have to speak up about the people of Iran, we have to protect our family in Iran as well.” The attendee added that “I believe that the intervention of the U.S. and Israel is maybe not the best way, but I believe that this is the only way.”
“We realize that rising up from within isn’t sufficient,” said Tofigh. “The people inside Iran have asked for help, asked for intervention.”