Iranian president describes protests over fuel prices as just

Tehran, Nov 18 (Prensa Latina) Iranian President Hassan Rouhani said that the protests against an increase in gasoline prices are just, because it is a right to express disagreement with an unpopular decision.

Rouhani, whose statements were quoted on Monday by local media, criticized a group of rioters who hid behind citizens' legitimate demands to try to create insecurity and instability in the country.

According to the head of State, the people have the right to protest, although this should not lead to insecurity and anarchy, he noted.

Expressing dissatisfaction is a right all people are entitled to, but that is not the same as generating disturbances, he added.

'The government will not permit disturbances or insecurity,' the president stressed.

Rouhani's statements came following vandalism against state and private property, on the sidelines of peaceful demonstrations, in an attempt to undermine public security and order.

The increase in fuel prices was decided by the High Council for Economic Coordination, made up of the Executive, Legislative and Judicial powers, in order to redirect the difference to low-income families.

This measure can improve the people's social welfare, in addition to preventing smuggling, Rouhani stated.