In the wake of the US airstrikes on Iran’s nuclear facilities on 22 June 2025, widespread protests have erupted across the world—signalling growing unease over escalating tensions in the Middle East.

In Tehran, state-backed crowds rallied behind the government, waving “Down with the USA” flags and portraits of Supreme Leader Ayatollah Khamenei. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian even joined chants declaring readiness for “the big battle”

In Western capitals, demonstrations voiced opposition to the strikes. San Francisco saw hundreds chant “Hands off Iran,” denouncing the attacks as potential war crimes and urging US funds be diverted from warfare to social services

New York, Washington DC, Berlin, Karachi, and Melbourne also saw sizeable anti-war gatherings calling for restraint and highlighting the risk of wider conflict

In The Hague, around 5,000 protesters at an anti-NATO rally redirected their anger to condemn the U.S. strikes—carrying banners urging de-escalation and even disbanding NATO

Similar public pressure in Europe and South Asia illustrates the growing concern that military action could not only destabilise the region but also endanger global peace.

For many in the UK, these movements may echo domestic debates about the country’s potential involvement or support for allies. The protests reflect a shared call for diplomacy over force and underscore worldwide anxiety about the path ahead.