Iran Protests News / Iranian Protests Escalate Globally: London Embassy Flag Replaced Amidst Uprising

The wave of anti-government protests in Iran continues to grow, now manifesting on an international scale. What began as demonstrations over economic hardships on December 28th has evolved into a widespread movement challenging the current regime. People are taking to the streets in large numbers, chanting slogans against the government and engaging in acts of arson. This unrest has transcended Iran's borders, reaching major cities worldwide where Iranian diaspora communities and supporters are showing solidarity. AIn a dramatic turn of events, the Iranian embassy in London became the focal point of these global protests.

An individual scaled the embassy building in the Kensington area and removed the current flag of the Iranian regime, while in its place, the demonstrator hoisted the historic 'Lion and Sun' flag, a symbol associated with Iran's monarchy before the 1979 Islamic Revolution. A large crowd of anti-government protestors gathered outside the embassy cheered and chanted slogans against the current government. A video of this incident quickly went viral on social media, capturing the entire sequence of events. According to Agence France-Presse (AFP), the flag remained hoisted for several minutes before it was eventually removed.

Arrests and Police Response

Following the incident in London, the Metropolitan Police swiftly responded, arresting two individuals at the scene. However, it remains unclear whether the person who removed the flag is among those arrested, while police have initiated further investigations into the matter. This incident underscores the depth of anti-regime sentiment and the willingness of protestors to voice their dissent on international platforms.

Historical Significance of the 'Lion and Sun' Flag

The 'Lion and Sun' flag, which was hoisted at the London embassy, holds profound historical significance for Iran. This flag was a long-standing symbol of Iran's monarchy and was officially used until the 1979 Islamic Revolution. After the Shah was overthrown and the new religiously-led government came to power, this flag was replaced by the current flag of the Islamic Republic, while since then, the 'Lion and Sun' flag has primarily been adopted by pro-monarchy groups and certain segments of the Iranian diaspora who oppose the current regime. In the recent protests, this flag has re-emerged as a powerful symbol of defiance and a call for change.

Nationwide Protests: Origins and Expansion

The protests in Iran initially began on December 28th, sparked by economic hardships. Shopkeepers in Tehran closed their businesses, and gradually, the demonstrations spread across the entire country. Now, the protestors aren't merely confined to economic issues; they're demanding broader political and social reforms. During these ongoing protests, the Associated Press (AP) reported on Sunday that at least 116. People have died and over 2,600 have been detained, highlighting the severe nature of the situation.

International Solidarity and US Warning

In solidarity with the Iranian protestors, demonstrations have also taken place in other major European cities, including Paris and Berlin. A protest was also held outside the White House in Washington D, while c. , clearly demonstrating international concern and support. Amidst these escalating protests, the Iranian regime has also shut down internet services in the country, attempting to control the flow of information. US President Donald Trump has repeatedly warned Iran that the United States would respond strongly if the Iranian regime resorts to widespread violence. During a press conference in Washington D. C, while on Friday, Trump stated that pressure on Iran is continuously increasing, and people are gaining control of cities that no one would have thought possible a few weeks ago. He also affirmed that the US is closely monitoring the situation and would protect protestors if necessary. This statement points towards growing international interest and potential intervention in Iran's internal affairs.

The moment Spiderman tore down the Islamic Republic flag at Iran's embassy in London, and raised the lion and sun flag 💪

pic.twitter.com/2C2QSavLl6

— Dr. Eli David (@DrEliDavid) January 10, 2026