Santa Marian’s protest during “No War with Iran” rally

SANTA MARIA, Calif. - The United States' killing of Iranian military leader Qasem Soleimani has sparked a countrywide protest. Demonstrations were held throughout Santa Barbara County.

Our news team attended the protest in Santa Maria.

As tensions between Iran and the U.S. continue to rise, critics gathered Thursday night to protest against what they call the U.S. provoking a potential war.

“I'm here because war is not the answer. Some soldiers may not even come home at all…” cried rally protester Michelle Olayo.

Olayo broke down into tears when she described why she came to the No War with Iran Rally.

“Many soldiers go out there and join the military because they can get an education. To get a better life. Not to come home…” said Olayo with tears streaming down her face.

President Trump's administration's assassination of Iran's military leader has left many Americans fearful that our country is on the brink of war.

“In this case, I think it is really serious. And people need to come out on the streets and say no, we don’t want war,” said another protester Pam Gates.

Protesters shouted with signs as they walked around the intersection of Broadway and Main Streets.

“Spread love not hate,” they chanted.

One protester said he hopes Iran's revenge missile attack for Soleimani's death will be the only action they take.

“When you assassinate someone which is certainly an act of war it makes me and millions of people concerned we will have a war,” said protester Eric Onsgerd.

No one died during the Iran missile attack that hit two Iraqi military bases.
However, community members at tonight's rally worry that Iran is not finished with retaliation.

“My fears are that we are going to have yet another war in the Middle East, but this time in Iran. It seems like we have been pointing in that direction for years and years,” said Onsgerd.

No counter-protesters were present tonight. And the protesters that were there had one unified message.

“One united we will never be divided,” chanted the crowd of local residents.

“Spread love, not war, it's important for us to come together at these times,” said Olayo.

The event was organized by the Democratic Club of Santa Maria Valley.
Demonstrations were also held in Arroyo Grande, San Luis Obispo, Isla Vista and Santa Barbara.