UK Lawmakers Urge Action on Iran’s Human Rights Violations

On February 12, UK lawmakers and advocates convened in the House of Lords to discuss human rights violations in Iran. Key speakers supported the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and called for the IRGC’s proscription as a terrorist group. They emphasized the need for urgent international intervention, highlighting the ongoing executions and advocating for a democratic future for Iran.

On February 12, a notable gathering in the House of Lords convened influential figures from various sectors to address human rights and democratic principles in Iran. Mosa Zahed, the event’s host and founding director of the Middle East Forum for Development, underscored the urgency for international involvement in light of ongoing human rights abuses, including the imminent execution of political prisoner Behrooz Ehsani.

Zahed emphasized that the UK must designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist entity, stating, “The Iranian people have relentlessly fought for their rights. The UK must proscribe the IRGC as a terrorist organization and stand firmly with the Iranian people’s fight for democracy.”

Lord Henry Bellingham reiterated this call, advocating for the recognition of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) and urging the cessation of executions in Iran. He stated, “We must continue our efforts to stop executions inside Iran and push the government to proscribe the IRGC, which will support the Iranian people and contribute to global peace and stability.”

Farzaneh Najari, a member of the Anglo-Iranian Professionals, expressed the grave state of affairs in Iran, declaring, “Iran is a land of death. People die for speaking against the government, refusing the hijab, and due to inadequate healthcare. The NCRI and Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan are our people’s hope.”

Malcolm Fowler, a lawyer affiliated with the Human Rights Committee of the Law Society of England and Wales, criticized the UK government’s reluctance to confront the IRGC, cautioning, “They see appeasement as a sign of weakness. It is irrational to let the IRGC avoid being proscribed. We must be tougher against Iran’s misconduct.”

Jim Shannon MP, a consistent advocate for human rights, passionately stated, “At this moment, the lives of NCRI supporters hang in the balance. The regime thrives on oppression, but the people of Iran are rising and we must support them.”

Neda Zebeti, a human rights activist, reflected on the persistent struggle against oppression in Iran, stating, “Different dictators, different ideologies, yet the same oppression. The Iranian people’s demands have been consistent: an end to terrorism and respect for fundamental freedoms.”

Conservative Councillor Robert Ward expressed optimism, asserting, “The regime has never been weaker. This could be the year the regime falls.” He called for the UK to recognize the NCRI and act decisively against the IRGC.

Sheida Uraki shared her personal tragedy, pointing out the execution of her family members, and stated, “More than 1,000 people have been executed since the new president took power. We urge the UK to stop executions and support resistance forces.”

Siavosh Rajabi articulated the necessity for international action, proclaiming, “The NCRI is a beacon of hope. The UK must recognize the NCRI, engage with its leadership, and support global efforts to end executions. A free Iran will contribute to global stability and peace.”

The event concluded with a clarion call for immediate action, urging UK lawmakers and advocates to reject appeasement and actively support the movement for a secular, democratic Iran.

The discussions in the House of Lords highlighted the urgent need for the UK government to take a staunch position against Iran’s ongoing human rights abuses. Emphasizing support for the NCRI and Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan, advocates called for the IRGC’s designation as a terrorist organization and reinforced the importance of standing with the Iranian people’s aspirations for democracy and freedom. Action is needed to prevent further loss of life and support the quest for a free Iran.

Original Source: www.ncr-iran.org