Tehran in turmoil as citizens demand retaliation

Tensions are boiling over in Iran following a direct U.S. strike on multiple Iranian nuclear facilities, with thousands taking to the streets of Tehran on Sunday demanding a strong response, reports CNN.

The protests, centered in the capital’s iconic Inqilab Square, mark one of the largest public demonstrations in recent months.

Chanting anti-American and anti-Israeli slogans, demonstrators accused the United States of betrayal, claiming the attack was launched without warning during ongoing discussions around Iran's nuclear program. The U.S. strike comes amid escalating regional tensions following a recent Israeli offensive against Iran, further deepening the rift between Tehran and Washington.

Many Iranians expressed outrage over what they called a deliberate act of deception by the U.S. administration. Former President Donald Trump had publicly stated a decision on any action would take up to two weeks, but the strike was carried out just two days later.

"They said they would wait — but instead, they struck without warning," said one protester. "We respect, but we will not tolerate disrespect."

Another demonstrator described Trump as "the world’s dirtiest politician," accusing him of acting solely in self-interest. "Our nuclear programme is peaceful — even U.S. intelligence has said this. But Trump ignored his own country's assessments," the protester added.

Iranian authorities confirmed that three nuclear sites were targeted in Sunday's attack but stated that the core infrastructure of its nuclear programme remains intact.

Analysts say the strikes could trigger a wider conflict in the region, as Tehran vows to retaliate.