Turkish minister: Protests 'internal affairs' of Iran

By Ercan Canbolat and Tugrul Cam

ANKARA (AA) - Foreign Minister Mevlut Cavusoglu on Wednesday termed ongoing protests in Iran an “internal” matter of the neighboring country.

In remarks made during a meeting with media representatives in capital Ankara, Cavusoglu said: “This situation is internal affairs of Iran. But, the stability [of Iran] is also important for its neighbors. It is significant for all of us.

“We wish for these conflicts in Iran to come to an end and stability to be recovered immediately.”

Last Thursday, Iranians took to the streets in the northeastern cities of Mashhad and Kashmar to protest rising inflation and perceived government mismanagement, according to local media reports.

These protests were followed on Saturday and Wednesday by large demonstrations in support of the government.

Since the demonstrations erupted six days ago, at least 23 people have been killed -- including a police officer -- while hundreds more have reportedly been detained.