NICOSIA — Iran has placed its security forces on alert for pro-democracy unrest ahead of the anniversary of national elections that took place in June 2009.

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In remarks to Iran's state-owned Ilna news agency, Sajedi pointed to opposition calls for protests on the anniversary of the elections, Middle East Newsline reported. The announcements have been posted on reformist Web sites since April.

Mousavi and other opposition leaders have called on the government to allow the protests on June 12. So far, authorities have not formally responded.

Officials said they do not expect sustained massive protests on the first anniversary of the 2009 presidential elections. They said security forces, particularly the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps, have shattered the nationwide opposition.

In December 2009, eight people were killed in major protests in Iran. Since then, anti-government demonstrations have been rapidly quelled by authorities.

"Police are vigilant and in charge of public order and security," Sajedi said.

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