Mohammad Kowsari, the Commander of Intelligence and Operations for the Imam Hassan Security Unit, responsible for suppressing anti-regime protests, has reportedly been neutralized according to reports from Iran relayed by Mossad. Kowsari was said to be actively involved in operations, arrests, and the crackdown on demonstrations in western Iran, including Kurdish-populated regions, where he lost his life. This incident occurs amidst widespread social unrest, featuring strikes in the bazaars and escalating protests across the nation. So far, independent confirmations remains limited.
The situation is dynamic and evolving, while details regarding the incident remain unclear.
Mossad calls on Iranian protesters to strengthen mobilizations
As demonstrations grow across Iran, the Israeli intelligence agency Mossad posted an unusual message in Farsi on social media, urging protesters to take action and stating that they are with them in the streets amidst rising economic pressure and public turmoil. Mossad is calling on Iranian protesters to intensify their mobilizations, assuring them of its presence "on the ground" as protests have expanded to at least ten universities since yesterday. "Take to the streets together. The time has come. We are with you," stated the Israeli secret services via their X account, addressing the Iranian protesters in Farsi. "Not just from a distance or with words. We are also with you on the ground," according to the message broadcast in Hebrew by the Israeli army radio station.
The message was sent just days after the meeting between Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and Trump. Following the talks, the American president issued a warning to Iran regarding new strikes if Tehran restores its nuclear and ballistic programs. Iran, which does not recognize Israel, has long accused the Jewish state of sabotage operations against Iranian nuclear facilities and the assassinations of Iranian military, political, and scientific figures. Mossad has demonstrated for decades its ability to penetrate the inner sanctums of the Islamic Republic.
Iran and Israel, enemies since the founding of the Islamic Republic in 1979, conducted a 12-day war in June that began with a large-scale Israeli attack against Iranian military and nuclear facilities as well as populated areas. According to Israeli and American media, the attack utilized drones that had entered Iran in advance, as well as missiles and fighter jets. Following the war, the director of Mossad stated that the spy agency's activities in Tehran would continue.
Change of leadership at the Central Bank due to cost-of-living anger – Rial at historic lows, generalized mobilizations
In an effort to curb mounting social tension and halt the rapid deterioration of economic conditions, Iran has replaced its Central Bank governor while protests by businessmen and students spread across the country due to the skyrocketing cost of living and the collapse of the national currency. Abdolnaser Hemmati was confirmed on Wednesday as the new governor of the Central Bank, just days after the outbreak of the largest protests in Iran in recent years. Simultaneously, the government unexpectedly announced a general holiday, closing state services and educational institutions in nearly all provinces—a move interpreted by many as an attempt to defuse or limit the mobilizations.
From the Grand Bazaar to the streets – The spark of protests
The protests began on Sunday when shopkeepers in the commercial heart of Tehran lowered their shutters, with the historic Grand Bazaar following suit. This move carried heavy symbolism, as the bazaar traditionally serves as a barometer of social and economic discontent. The anger was sparked by the collapse of the rial, which has dropped to historic lows against the dollar, and by inflation exceeding 40%, dramatically eroding the living standards of Iranians and increasing pressure on the government for immediate intervention.
"Our mission is stability"
Upon assuming the governorship, Abdolnaser Hemmati stated that his goal is the restoration of "economic stability," emphasizing that: "The fundamental responsibility of the Central Bank is to curb inflation, control the banks, and abolish the multi-tiered exchange rate system, which breeds corruption." His appointment is particularly significant as he had been removed from his position as Minister of Economy in March following sharp drops in the rial. He replaced Mohammad Reza Farzin, who resigned on Monday. Government spokesperson Fatemeh Mohajerani stated that Hemmati’s appointment had the support of banking experts and was accompanied by a "vote of confidence from the government."
The mobilizations spread to other cities, with social media videos showing students chanting slogans such as "Death to the dictator." Unconfirmed reports spoke of brief arrests of protesters, while counter-protests by regime supporters took place in various areas. Local media reported that crowds gathered outside the governor's office in the city of Fasa, in the southwest of the country. Videos circulating on social media allegedly show security forces intervening when protesters attempted to break the building's gate. Later, authorities reported that the situation had normalized.
Four-day "lockdown" of the country – Emergency measure or political calculation?
The government announced the closure of state services and educational institutions for nearly four days, citing the need to limit energy consumption as temperatures drop. However, many citizens believe the measure also aims to limit the momentum of the protests. The Ministry of Higher Education announced that university classes will be held remotely during the final week of the semester, citing cold weather, energy shortages, and the need to protect students ahead of exams. Fatemeh Mohajerani stated that the government recognizes the citizens' right to protest and is trying to show understanding toward the economic difficulties.
Change in Iran's military leadership: New deputy chief for the IRGC
A significant change occurred in the leadership of the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), as General Vahidi took over as deputy chief of the powerful force, replacing Admiral Ali Fadavi. Vahidi previously served as deputy chief of the General Staff of the Iranian Armed Forces, and his placement in the new position took place following a recommendation by the commander of the IRGC, Iranian Chief of Staff Mohammad Pakpour. The appointment was ratified by an official decree from the Supreme Leader of the Islamic Revolution, Ayatollah Seyed Ali Khamenei, who is also the supreme commander of the Iranian Armed Forces.
www.bankingnews.gr
Σχόλια αναγνωστών