Iranian lawmakers set fire to the United States flag in parliament on Wednesday (9/5). This action was carried out because of a US decision that withdrew from Iran's nuclear pact. In addition to burning flags, they also shouted anti-US slogans. Like, "Death to America!"
The action reflects the widespread public outrage in Iran following Trump's decision, which threatens to destroy the 2015 nuclear deal. Iranian officials, including parliament speaker, are hoping Europe will work with Iran to defend the deal. Although many people are pessimistic about it.
Members of parliament, including a Shia cleric, participated in the action. They also burned a piece of paper that represented the nuclear deal and stepped on the paper ashes.
The burning of US flags is common in Iran. Strong criticism of the US has been a parliamentary subject of Iranian politics for many years. The 2015 Agreement imposes restrictions on Iran's nuclear program in return for the lifting of most US and international sanctions.
However, the deal has a deadline and does not discuss Iran's ballistic missile programs or its regional policies in Syria and elsewhere. Trump has repeatedly said that it was the worst deal ever. Supporters of the deal have said the time limit is meant to encourage more discussions with Iran in the future that could ultimately solve other problems.
Tuesday night (8/5), President Hassan Rouhani said he would send Iranian Foreign Minister Mohammad Javad Zarif to countries that are still in agreement namely China, France, Germany, Russia and Britain. Iran hopes the EU will pass legislation to protect European companies from any potential US sanctions. EU officials say they will try to save the deal.
However, Rouhani stressed that Iran, anytime, can continue its nuclear program.
"So if necessary, we can start industrial enrichment without restrictions ... It all depends on our national interests," he said.
Early Wednesday after the flag-burning incident, parliament speaker Ali Larijani said the EU and other world powers were responsible for saving the deal.
Larijani also urged Iran's nuclear department to prepare for the return of all aspects of Iran's nuclear activities. Currently, many Iranians are worried about the US decision.