Iranian families mark protest killings as schools observe strikes

"Families across Iran have commemorated loved ones killed during nationwide protests last month, while teachers said school strikes were taking place to protest the killings. Many attended ceremonies at Behesht-e Zahra, Tehran's grand cemetery, on Tuesday and Wednesday, which marked 40 days a traditional period of mourning since the nights of January 8 and 9, when thousands were killed amid an unprecedented state-imposed internet and phone-service shutdown."

"Numerous videos have emerged online showing similar commemorations in many cities, including Lahijan to the north, Quchan and Mashhad in the northeast, Marvdasht in the south, and Najafabad in central Iran. Chants of for each person killed, thousands are behind them could be heard in many of the ceremonies. Mourners spread flower petals, lit candles and somberly clapped in solidarity with the families."

"At a ceremony on Tuesday to honour 19-year-old Sepehr Shokri, his father told gathered crowds, Don't talk of death, but of life and happiness, as he said his son had laid down his life for his country. The father had captured hearts last month after releasing an excruciating 12-minute video of himself searching for his son among numerous bodies of killed protesters laid out in the open at the courtyards and warehouses of the Kahrizak medical examiner's office, on the outskirts of Tehran."

Families across Iran held commemorations marking 40 days of mourning since the nights of January 8 and 9, when thousands were killed amid a state-imposed internet and phone-service shutdown. Teachers staged school strikes to protest the killings. Large ceremonies were held at Behesht-e Zahra in Tehran and in cities including Lahijan, Quchan, Mashhad, Marvdasht and Najafabad. Mourners spread flower petals, lit candles, clapped, and chanted slogans such as "for each person killed, thousands are behind them." Some smaller-city and village events reported panic as the sound of bullets rang out near cemeteries.

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