Clashes were reported in Iran on Thursday as government forces attempted to disperse a memorial rally in Tehran. Despite Iran's attempts to keep such events under wraps, many of those present managed to take photos and videos, which they later put online.
One video shows demonstrators chanting their support as opposition candidate Mir Hossein Mousavi arrives at the rally. Demonstrations began several weeks ago when Mousavi and his supporters rejected the official results of Iran's presidential elections. The state reported a landslide victory for incumbent candidate Mahmoud Ahmadinejad.
While Mousavi managed to make an appearance at the protest, police prevented him from joining the rally.
After the rally was dispersed, demonstrations broke out in other parts of the Iranian capital. According to initial reports, at least one protester was killed by fire from police at one of the subsequent protest rallies.
Thousands demonstrated at Revolution Square in Isfahan. Despite inclement weather, demonstrators also took to the streets of the southwestern city of Ahvaz.
The rally took place on the fortieth day after the death of Neda Agha Soltan, one of many young protesters to die at the hands of pro-government militias in the first weeks after the elections. Neda's death was captured on video, and she became a symbol of the Iranian opposition.
The demonstration was held at the Tehran cemetery where Neda and several other slain protesters are buried.
According to the Associated Press, some demonstrators shouted “Neda is alive, Ahmadinejad is dead,” while still others yelled, “Death to the dictator.” Police beat them back with batons and tear gas, and shouted “Death to those who oppose the Supreme Leader.”