Protesters Rally Against Trump's Military Action in Iran

Tensions remain high as Rhode Islanders gather to condemn what they call an "unprovoked, illegal war" against Iran.

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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As tensions remain high in the Middle East, Rhode Islanders gathered in Providence on Monday evening to protest what they're calling an "unprovoked, illegal war" against Iran by the Trump administration and Israel. The protest comes after President Trump announced American forces had begun "major combat operations" in Iran, aiming to dismantle its military capabilities and potentially spark regime change.

Why it matters

The protests highlight growing opposition to the Trump administration's military actions in the Middle East, with critics arguing the strikes do not reflect the will of the American people and that funds would be better spent on domestic priorities like healthcare and housing.

The details

During a news conference, Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth outlined the mission of the Pentagon's "Operation Epic Fury," saying it aims to destroy Iranian offensive missiles, missile production facilities and the country's navy. Although U.S. troops are not currently on the ground in Iran, Trump has not ruled out that possibility. According to U.S. officials, six American service members have been killed and several others seriously wounded in one of Iran's initial counterattacks.

  • On Saturday, President Donald Trump announced American forces had begun 'major combat operations' in Iran.
  • On Monday, protesters gathered in Providence to condemn the military action.

The players

Donald Trump

The President of the United States who ordered the military strikes against Iran.

Pete Hegseth

The U.S. Defense Secretary who outlined the mission of "Operation Epic Fury" against Iran.

Dan Denvir

The co-chair of the local economic justice advocacy organization Reclaim RI, who condemned the war.

Maria Friedman

The executive director of the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel, who said the conflict appears to be a pivotal moment for Iran and will pave a path for a safer world moving forward.

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What they’re saying

“When you see protestors in the street calling for money for health care education and housing and not for bombing other people children in other countries…that is the majority opinion. Why is our government spending money dropping bombs on Iranian people instead of building houses for people who live here? We need a Democratic Party that's going to stand up to war abroad.”

— Dan Denvir, Co-chair of Reclaim RI (WPRI)

“Ones here, many of them can't reach their family members because there hasn't been internet there. They're terrified. I think it's upon all of us to actually learn the history and facts of of what is going on in Iran and the Middle East at large.”

— Maria Friedman, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel (WPRI)

“I think it's extremely exciting, especially seeing the videos of Iranians celebrating in the streets. It makes me feel very hopeful for them for the future. Of course, it's sad to see casualties in Israel and Iran, but I believe it's a really exciting moment.”

— Maria Friedman, Executive Director of the Rhode Island Coalition for Israel (WPRI)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

The protests highlight growing opposition to the Trump administration's military actions in the Middle East, with critics arguing the strikes do not reflect the will of the American people and that funds would be better spent on domestic priorities like healthcare and housing.