Tehran Protests: Tear Gas Drifts Near Hospital in Chaotic Clashes

In a tense moment during protests in Tehran, tear gas fired to disperse crowds drifted towards the Sina hospital, sparking concerns. However, Iranian officials claim the gas was not deliberately targeted at the medical facility. According to the ISNA news agency, security forces used tear gas in an alley adjacent to the hospital to clear protesters, who were demonstrating against the rising cost of living. The natural movement of the protesters caused the gas to drift towards the hospital, unintentionally exposing patients and staff to the substance. Iranian authorities have denied allegations that the tear gas was aimed at the hospital, stating that such claims do not align with the facts. The protests, which began on December 28, have spread across the country, particularly in the west, where Kurdish and Lor minority groups reside. The demonstrations are the most significant since the 2022-2023 nationwide rallies sparked by the death of Mahsa Amini in custody. As Iran grapples with an economic crisis and the aftermath of a 12-day war against Israel, the protests pose a new challenge to the country's leadership.