Large demonstrations took place across several US cities on Sunday as Iranian expatriates protested against Iran’s deadly suppression of anti-government movements and expressed solidarity with demonstrators inside the country. According to AFP, thousands marched in Los Angeles, home to the world’s largest Iranian diaspora, while hundreds gathered in New York. Protesters carried placards reading messages such as “New Holocaust,” “Ongoing Genocide,” and calls to end the Iranian government’s “terror.” One participant, Pery Faraj, said his cousin was killed during protests in Iran earlier in the week.

The protests followed unrest that began in late December over economic hardship and quickly turned into a broader anti-government movement. Iran’s communications blackout and security crackdown since January 8 have largely subdued the demonstrations. The human rights group Iran Human Rights reported verifying 3,428 protester deaths at the hands of security forces, though the actual number may be higher.

Many demonstrators voiced support for Reza Pahlavi, son of Iran’s former Shah, though experts noted his influence remains limited inside Iran. The rallies aimed to draw international attention to the repression, while observers stressed that Iran’s future will ultimately depend on its people.