Opposition supporters chanted anti-government slogans in Iran's holy city of Qom on Monday after the funeral of Ayatollah Montazeri.
Mourners wearing green items, a symbol of the protests that followed last June's presidential election, chanted slogans similar to those used in the post-ballot demonstrations.
The regime has hoped the protesters would become discouraged and finally give up. What seems to have happened is that the protesters have escalated their goals.
The mullahs might still be right, of course, that this people power will be overcome by the persistent brutality of the state. But at least it can be said that the mullahs certainly aren't out of the woods yet.
UPDATE: Regime change is in the wind:
“Rape, atrocities, an unworthy government,” mourners chanted in Qom Monday. “This is the month of blood, Yazid will fall,” sounded another, referring to the 7th-century caliph who killed Hossein, the grandson of the Prophet Mohammad. Today, Yazid is seen as the symbol of evil, and of every oppressive ruler.
“The silence of each Muslim is treason against the Quran,” rang out another slogan. And yet another: “Montazeri’s last wish, an end to this dictatorship.”
The protesters just don't seem very interested in a recount any more.
