Paris, France – European capitals have entered the fray in the Iranian crisis as protests spread. France called on Iranian authorities on Friday to show “maximum restraint” toward demonstrators. This was the first official reaction from Paris following a night of violent clashes in Tehran and other cities.
The French position: “The right to demonstrate is legitimate.”
AFP quoted a French diplomatic source as saying that Paris is following developments with concern. The source stressed that Iranian authorities are required to respect the rights of their citizens. The diplomatic statement highlighted an explicit call to avoid excessive violence in dealing with protesters. Paris also expressed its regret over the deaths and injuries, calling on Tehran to open a transparent investigation into the circumstances of these deaths. It reminded Iran of the need to respect freedom of expression and assembly in accordance with international conventions.
Mitsula’s message to the Iranian people: “Europe hears your cries.”
In the same vein, the President of the European Parliament, Roberta Mitsola, addressed a powerful video message to the Iranian people, affirming Europe’s support for their demands. In her message, Mitsola stated, “The people of Iran are not merely demonstrating; they are crying out for freedom. Europe hears your voices, and these voices will continue to rise until the whole world hears them.” Mitsola emphasized that the European Parliament will continue to support the men and women who take to the streets to defend their dignity and fundamental rights.
Germany condemns “excessive violence”
For its part, the German Foreign Ministry condemned what it described as the “excessive use of force” by Iranian security forces. The German Foreign Minister stated on Thursday that the suppression of peaceful demonstrations was unacceptable. He called on the Iranian government to address the economic and social demands instead of resorting to security measures.
The field and political situation
These international stances come as the Iranian national uprising enters its thirteenth day. This is happening amidst a digital blackout and internet disruptions, and amid mutual accusations between the authorities, who speak of “foreign conspiracies,” and the protesters, who are demanding fundamental changes to the structure of the regime and the management of the economy.
