Keir Starmer has criticized the violence against protestors in Iran and called on Tehran to show restraint during a harsh crackdown on demonstrations against the government. Reports indicate that at least 62 individuals have been killed and 2,300 detained over several weeks of protests triggered by economic struggles.
In response to the unrest, Iranian authorities have restricted internet access and international calls. In a joint statement with the leaders of France and Germany, the Prime Minister expressed deep concern over the reported violence by Iranian security forces and strongly denounced the killing of protestors.
The leaders emphasized the importance of Iranian authorities protecting their population and allowing freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of retaliation. They urged Tehran to exercise restraint, avoid violence, and uphold the fundamental rights of Iranian citizens.
The recent turmoil started with small-scale demonstrations on December 28 related to economic hardships, which have now escalated into a major challenge to the ruling regime. Nationwide protests gained momentum after exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi called for demonstrations, leading to widespread anti-government chants.
In response, authorities imposed a complete internet blackout and promised a forceful crackdown, resulting in numerous detentions and fatalities. The Supreme Leader, Ayatollah Ali Khamenei, accused protestors of seeking approval from the US President, Donald Trump, who warned of intervention if peaceful demonstrators were harmed.
Khamenei’s regime, in power since 1989, faced criticism for its repressive policies, including strict control over citizens’ lives, limited freedom of expression, gender segregation, and clothing regulations. Calls have emerged for the UK government to designate the ruling Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist organization, similar to its status in the US, Canada, and Sweden.
Human rights expert Mohammad Hanif Jazayeri urged democratic governments to support the Iranian people in their struggle for change, emphasizing the need to recognize their right to establish a free and democratic republic. Specifically, he called for the UK government to classify the IRGC as a terrorist group to address suppression and terrorism within the regime.