Windsor protesters rally in solidarity with Iranians amid internet shutdown

Hundreds in downtown Windsor rallied to show solidarity with Iranian protesters after Iran imposed a nationwide internet and phone shutdown; a human rights group reports more than 500 people killed and over 10,000 detained during the unrest.

Several hundred people gathered in downtown Windsor to protest and to show solidarity with Iranians amid a reported nationwide internet and phone shutdown in Iran. Demonstrators said the current wave of unrest began in Tehran's Grand Bazaar in December over record-high inflation and has expanded into broader demands for freedoms and women's rights. Local participants described the movement as a revolution rather than a single uprising. Attendees linked their concerns to human rights and urged that the voices of people in Iran be heard internationally. Key points: - Hundreds demonstrated in Windsor in solidarity with protesters in Iran. - Organizers and participants said Iran imposed an internet and phone blackout during the unrest. - The protests began in Tehran's Grand Bazaar in December and were initially tied to record-high inflation of more than 50 percent. - According to one human rights group, more than 500 people have been killed and more than 10,000 detained amid the protests. - A Middle East expert cautioned that the regime has previously suppressed uprisings and that any escalation could have broader regional implications, including risks to oil transit through the Strait of Hormuz. Summary: The Windsor rally illustrates Canadian concern and solidarity with protesters who are calling for expanded freedoms amid a communications blackout in Iran. Experts note that the unrest has potential regional and global effects if it escalates, while past uprisings have at times been suppressed. Undetermined at this time.