Shut Down Tehran’s Embassies Aboard Expel its Agents, Operatives
Prominent international figures join Iranians from across the globe for a worldwide internet conference focusing on the mullahs’ support for terrorism and shutting down its embassies- July 20, 2020
The Iranian regime is a global threat conducting terrorist and criminal activities all over the world. Iran’s regime is the greatest sponsor of terrorism in the Middle East and the world. It sits at the nexus of nearly every major global threat: the Syrian crisis, the rise of ISIS, the resurgence of al Qaeda, the crisis in Iraq, and the chaos in Yemen.
Iran’s Regime, reign of global terror
With the inception of the mullahs’ rule in 1979, a concrete, practical model was created for all fundamentalist groups.
All fundamentalist groups share the following: Imposing religion by force through Sharia laws; export of terrorism; hegemonic ambitions beyond their borders and enmity to the West; and misogyny. All of these different groups, they look to Tehran as the godfather of international Islamic fundamentalism.
Iran’s terror activities across its borders
The Iranian regime has been implicated in assassinations, terrorist plots, and terrorist attacks in more than 40 countries. Senior regime’s officials have declared that Iran follows and constantly surveils Iranian dissidents in other countries to crack down on them and strike decisive blows.
Iran’s global campaign of terror has included more than 400 targeted assassinations in other countries, and mass bombing attacks that killed and maimed hundreds. Iranian diplomatic personnel has repeatedly been implicated in assassinations abroad, as evidenced by arrest warrants, judicial and police investigations, intelligence services, and witness reports.
Iranian assassins using diplomatic cover have attracted increased scrutiny, the regime is using its proxy forces, and other third parties to carry out its terrors abroad. The regime consistently lies about its involvement in killings abroad, even when its own diplomatic personnel is caught surveilling attack targets, providing explosives, or fleeing crime scenes.
Gov. Tom Ridge, first United States Secretary of Homeland Security, from 2003 to 2005
“No enterprise, organization, or government has undertaken such an extraordinary initiative with such results. If you take that mindset and relocate it inside Iran, what a different, positive place this country would be.
“The challenge we have is that the tentacles of terrorism still reach out from Tehran. Rouhani and the mullahs have turned their backs on the people of Iran. Instead of using their wealth to enhance the quality of life for the citizens of Iran, they use it to export their terrorism and repression around the world.
“The mullahs and Rouhani oversee the Central Bank of terrorism. We have discovered that their embassies have become branch banks. In those embassies, they stimulate chaos and anti-government activities.
“What we have also discovered is that the peaceful path doesn’t work. Appeasement with the Iranian government will not lead to peace. It never has and never will. We need to ask these countries to rid themselves of the diplomatic core of the regime.
“As we have said during this three-day summit, it’s time for the world to embrace regime change, to recognize the NCRI, this incredible organization led by a leader who has been able to generate global support for her vision for a peaceful and non-nuclear Iran, which promotes gender equality and separation of church and state.
“I am very proud to be part of this group of NCRI supporters that grows larger every day. To the residents of Ashraf 3, I have followed your history, I know what you have endured in Ashraf 1 and 2. Your struggle and sacrifice is an inspiration to all of us. I’m proud to be with you and will be with you until we celebrate in Iran.”
Iranian opposition NCRI President Maryam Rajavi
“Terrorism is the essence and fundamental nature of this regime and it is inseparable from it,” Mrs. Rajavi said in her keynote speech at the event.
The Iranian opposition President reiterated part of the long list of terror activities by the Iranian regime across the globe, especially against the Iranian resistance. “These are the methods used by the regime, and it is how the regime has held onto power over more than 40 years through suppression and terrorism,” Madam Rajavi emphasized.
The NCRI President also warned against the regime’s propaganda against the MEK, especially in the past few days and in the context of the Free Iran global rally. “In this way, they want to confront the impact of the Resistance’s annual gathering and, also, pave the way for their terrorist attacks,” Mrs. Rajavi explained. “This has been the clerical regime’s method which it does not abandon until the day it is overthrown by the Iranian people and the great Army of Freedom.”
Regarding the right policy to deal with the Iranian regime’s terrorism, Mrs. Rajavi noted that the policy of rapprochement has allowed the regime to continue its acts of terror. “It was not the power of the regime that made the expansion of its terrorism and fundamentalism possible, it was this appeasement policy,” NCRI President Rajavi said, adding that Iran’s mullahs have interpreted western governments’ appeasement or their turning a blind eye as a sign of weakness, encouraging them to increase their aggression.
Neither has the regime abandoned its terrorism as a result of incentives, Mrs. Rajavi reminded in her speech.
“The right policy can be summed up in a single word: firmness,” Mrs. Rajavi stressed. “That means firmly dispensing with everything that enables the regime’s terrorist activity, and firmly responding to every single criminal act.”
After detailing the regime’s covers and tactics for terrorist activities, the Iranian opposition President underscored, “The regime’s terrorism grows and expands under the shadow of silence, denial, ignorance, turning a blind eye and looking the other way. It is time for all this ignorance about the people of the world’s fate, security and peace to end.”
Mrs. Rajavi concluded her speech by laying out key measures that can stop the regime’s foreign terrorism in Europe, including the following:
1. Closure of the regime’s embassies.
2. Shutting down all centers of the regime’s espionage and terrorism, including front companies, cultural and educational centers, and religious associations funded by Tehran.
3. Blocking international financial transactions by individuals or front companies of the mullahs’ MOIS or IRGC Qods Force.
4. Expelling the regime’s agents and operatives who function under the cover of commercial, cultural, or religious activities, or disguise as journalists or opponents, refugees, or citizens.
5. Preventing security and intelligence services from communicating or contacting the regime’s MOIS or IRGC Qods Force.
6.Full and public exposure of the regime’s terrorist plots, operations and the identities of the MOIS and IRGC Qods Force agents and operatives active in Europe and the identities of the regime’s front entities and/or lobbies.
7.Effective legislation facilitating the expulsion of the regime’s MOIS and IRGC operatives from Europe and the U.S.
“I hope that all governments respond positively to these calls because their own people’s interests and security depend on such acts of firmness,” Mrs. Rajavi said. “Any act of firmness against this regime and any steps taken against it, anywhere in the world, will aid the Iranian’s people’s struggle to overthrow the regime, and is in line with international peace and security.”
Former U.S. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy John Rood
“It is impressive that you have overcome challenges and connected everyone. Today, the Iranian regime remains the world’s leading state sponsor of terrorism. Terrorism has been at the heart of the regime since the 1979 revolution. In the ideology promoted by [regime founder Ruhollah] Khomeini’s vision, we have seen the regime use its forces and embassies to conduct terrorism across the world.
“The regime in Tehran provides financial support to terrorists across the world. Imagine how this money could have helped improve the livelihoods of the people of Iran.
“The people of Iran do not support the regime’s terrorism. It is important that we continue the maximum pressure campaign to limit the ability of the regime to export terrorism and its malign influence.
“It’s very important that this complex web of companies and individuals be targeted and attacked. Companies must be very careful who they are dealing with to avoid supporting these terrorists.
“When necessary, we must take firm decisive action to deter the regime’s terrorist activities. We need to recognize that terrorism is part of the fabric of this regime. Countries must very closely monitor and surveil the activities of Iranian diplomats, and when necessary shut down the regime’s embassies.”
Former Albanian Prime Minister Pandeli Majko
“The only option for the Iranian regime is to change and to overcome differences between allies. Iran is not acting like a state. It is interfering in the internal affairs of countries. It is acting on its own geopolitical interests and does not respect international norms.
“We think that freedom will be the future of Iran. And we believe that the MEK creates trust and faith between Iran and the world. Iran has the vaccine for its future. It is the MEK and the people who fight for freedom. You are part of our family and we consider you part of us.”
Struan Stevenson, former MEP and President of the European Parliament’s Delegation for Relations with Iraq
“For the past 41 years, the mullahs’ policy has boiled down to hatred of the world. To achieve their constitutional objective of spreading their revolution, the regime has supported Bashar al-Assad, Shiite militias in Iraq, the Houthis in Yemen, and spread terrorism across the globe. Every country the mullahs have targeted is now a smoking ruin.
“They have plundered the wealth of their people and destroyed Iran’s economy and environment. They have unleashed a brutal blitz on their people. Iran’s jails are bursting at the seams with political prisoners. The main targets for arrests and executions are always supporters of the PMOI and their families.
“The latest wave of arrests and sentences for the families of PMOI members has laid bare the terror of the mullahs for their collapse. Iran is now a powder keg.
“Iranian regime diplomat Assadollah Assadi is now being tried in Belgium. It is the first time in the European Union’s history that a diplomat is being tried for terrorism.
“All regime leaders must be held to account and indicted for acts of terror in international tribunals. All embassies of the mullahs must be closed as factories of terrorism.
“The regime is so frightened by the truth of PMOI’s popularity in Iran that it goes crazy of any positive coverage. Freedom of the press is meaningless for the mullahs. I encourage the press to take their journalistic principles seriously.
“The time has come to pull down the curtain on this murderous regime. The regime’s sell-by date has expired. The rulers have earned their place in the trashcan of history. It is time to say goodbye and good riddance.”
Fatmir Mediu, leader of the Albanian Republican Party and former Defense Minister
“All political parties in Albania support the MEK and the Iranian Resistance. It is time for Albania to decide and make a strong decision to end political relations with the Iranian regime. They tried to carry out an act of terrorism in our country.
“We must work to take to court some of the atrocities the regime is committing, including the killing of its own people.
“Iran is presenting a threat to our security. We should not ignore that fact. We must talk about it in NATO meetings. We should join you not only in conferences but also in activities that will help us raise this issue to another level.
“We stand with you. We are not just here to watch, we will take action. I feel proud when the world thanks us Albanians for what we have done. We will stand for freedom in Iran.”
Elona Gjebrea, Secretary of the Albanian Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee and former Deputy Interior Minister
“Albania has made a strong decision against the Iranian regime’s terrorist activities. We expelled the Iranian regime’s ambassador and three diplomats for their terrorist plots. The dossier of human rights abuses of the regime must be referred to the United Nations Security Council. I support Madam Rajavi and her ten-point plan. She envisions a free future for Iran.
“I am proud to support the Iranikhean women who struggle for freedom and democracy. I stand firm with Madam Rajavi and the Iranian Resistance units inside Iran.”
Kamel Nourani Fard, representative of the Organization of Iranian Kurdistan Struggle (Khebat)
“The mullahs’ regime has committed many crimes against the people of Iranian Kurdistan. Any action or civil rights activist is being branded as security issues and dozens of Kurds are being executed by this regime.
“There are no opportunities for the Kurdish people and they are going through very difficult times.
“This regime is based on terrorism and most terrorist activities around the world have their fingerprints. It is their method, approach and tool for pursuing their goals and extending their existence.
“Our organization and its leadership have been the target of many terrorist attacks by the regime. This regime will not go through any positive change through itself. It continues its life through violence and terrorism.
“We need to unite because of the tireless efforts of the Iranian Resistance and the continued uprisings in Iran and the growth of Resistance Units all over Iran. The regime is struggling under many crises and the international community must see that this regime is against the interests of all people across the globe. This requires unity from all of us. The existence of the NCRI is very valuable. I am very happy to see that we have this alternative which paves the path for the correct political path. We reiterate our unity with the NCRI and the MEK. We continue this unity until the overthrow of this regime.”
U.S. Senator Ben Cardin
“Our resolution supports the rights of all Iranians all around the world. It calls on the administration to provide free internet access to Iranians. Members of the Iranian regime must be held accountable for their suppression of free speech.
“Our resolution sends a powerful message to the Iranian regime. Our message is simple: We condemn suppression anywhere in the world.
“A brighter future is within reach in Iran.”
U.S. Senator John Cornyn
“America stands with the people of Iran in their desire to be free.”
U.S. Senator Mike Braun
“I always see the Iranian regime as a threat to our national security. I support resolutions that call out the Iranian regime for their atrocious crimes. I condemn Iran for their human rights abuses. Iranian citizens are denied freedom to assemble and freedom of speech. I will continue to speak out against Iran and stand with the Iranian people.”
Former Albanian MP Valentina Leskaj
“It is a human obligation to join the voices that support the Iranian Resistance and those who support human rights in Iran. The resistance do not fight for themselves, they fight for their country, but even beyond, they fight for all countries that suffer from the Iranian dictatorship.
“Due to the mullahs’ regime atrocities, more than 70,000 people have died of coronavirus in Iran.
“The people who live in Ashraf work hard. They did not wait for others to build their houses for them. They show a model of building a true community and live in harmony with the Albanian people. This is a very good example that they give in Albania. These people have shown they respect human rights, women’s rights, they’ve shown this by electing a woman, Madam Rajavi, as their leader. This is a strong message not only for Iran, but for the region and beyond.
“I support the NCRI and Madam Rajavi’s ten-point plan for a free, secular and democratic Iran. it is our responsibility to stand on the right side of history, and to stand with the people of Iran in the fight against the mullahs’ regime.
“It’s time for change in Iran.”
British MP Bob Blackman
“So while the regime is unable to stop the NCRI’s message of hope and democratic change from spreading in the Iranian society in particular amongst the youths, it tried to kill the messenger, the NCRI and Madame Rajavi.
“I am one of the plaintiffs in the trial against the arrested regime diplomat in Belgium. So I am encouraged to hear that finally after a two-year investigation, the first closed-door court hearing will start soon.
“This is a significant step to bring the regime to justice for its terrorism in an independent court and as Madame Rajavi said in her speech at an international online conference last month, the beginning of this trial is a major setback for the regime, its extensive two-year conspiracies and efforts to save its arrested diplomat in Belgium.
“There is no doubt that the Iranian regime would want to escape justice, but I want to declare as one of the plaintiffs in this file that we will not allow this to happen. We have a handful of evidence to show this regime’s heavy involvement in terrorist activities on European soil and by providing the court with all these evidence, we will ensure that this so-called diplomat will be held accountable for the malicious crime he was planning to commit at the order of his boss, [regime Foreign Minister Mohammad] Javad Zarif, as well as [the regime’s Supreme Leader Ali] Khamenei himself.
“It should and will bring a turning point in the foreign policy adopted by European governments vis-à-vis Iran’s regime so far.
“I also hope my government, the UK government, would soon join our American allies in proscribing the IRGC in its entirety as a terrorist organization, which is the real description of this paramilitary organization that only answers to the Supreme Leader. In addition, I hope to see Iranian embassies shut down in all European capitals and before all in London.”
Senator Robert Torroicelli
“Today, we are reminded how difficult our road has been, not only for the martyrs, but also what might have been if the terrorist plot of Tehran had come to pass. We can all assume that the target of the attack in Paris was Maryam Rajavi. An attack on her was an attack on every western democracy. It would be an act of war. My government acted decisively, placing the [IRGC] Quds Force on the terror list and taking action against Qasem Soleimani.
“It is time that other nations consider their position. How can governments of Europe not take similar action knowing about an attack on a peaceful assembly on their soil?
“The regime’s embassies are covers for terrorist activity. They also use them to procure nuclear material. Do these governments really want legal responsibility that embassies in their countries were used to take lives? It is time to close the embassies of the regime and to put the Quds Force on the terror list.
“To the German government, you must understand that the rules are different for the regime. There is a network disseminating false information on behalf of the regime. Der Spiegel cited false information from an operative of Iran and was forced to remove it. We are not suggesting what you write or who you are dealing with. You must know that these regimes will use means to manipulate you and get false reports on your media. The price is that it prevents the proper international coalition of individuals, gathering of thought building momentum and pressure against the regime. It will mean lives lost and delay in freeing Iran.
“Our ultimate obligation to all those who have died in these terrorist acts is that there will be accountability. In Tehran, they think they can hide behind the IRGC. The history of accountability of these regimes supports my argument, not their confidence.
“The long arm of justice reaches far and the memory is very long and we will not rest until it reaches you.”
“This battle has been going on for 40 years, and there has been no accountability for the regime for its murder, mayhem, pillage and evil. They have never been accountable for these acts of evil across the world. They sent children out to the minefields to find mines by stepping on them. Such a regime must go.
“There were murders in Camp Ashraf by regime operatives. There has been no accountability.
“The embassies are being used as a spying network, as forward operating bases for the IRGC. We must not allow that to occur anywhere in the world. They must be closed down. We are allowing a foreign terrorist enemy into our homes. Close them down now.
“The mullahs are at war with everybody, with the world, with their own people. We support the people. Let us not forget that governments are instituted to secure the rights of the people. We have the human right to change that government when it has become destructive. And we have 40 years of evidence.
“The mullahs must go. The regime is about to topple. And we must help the people of Iran do that. The mullahs’ plague is worse than the coronavirus. We must fight this plague.”
Ambassador Robert Joseph, former U.S. Undersecretary of State for Arms Control and International Security
“For the mullahs, terror is a way of life. It has been so from the outset. Terror is embedded in the regime’s DNA, and it is its future as it has been its past. The regime has conducted hundreds of assassinations and terrorist acts in more than 40 countries.
“Iranian diplomats have repeatedly been implicated in terrorist plots abroad, including in the U.S. and particularly in Europe. While we need to focus on the regime’s use of terror abroad, we must also acknowledge the mullahs’ use of terror to oppress the Iranian people. No one understands this better than the Iranian Resistance, who have suffered torture, execution and terror attacks by the regime.
“As part of its existence, terror will accompany the regime as long as it endures. But when terrorism is an essential component of the regime, when it becomes necessary for its survival, that regime is doomed. This is the paradox the mullahs cannot escape from.
“Three important steps: We must assume the regime will continue to implement terrorism. It is wrong to think that the regime will some day conform to international norms. At the operational level, we need to work closer on law enforcement and information sharing. We must sanction individuals and institutions. When there is evidence embassies are involved in terrorism, they must be shut down, whether in Tirana, Vienna, or elsewhere. At the strategic level, counterterrorism must be a central element of the maximum pressure campaign against the mullahs’ terrorism.
“Today’s event is a call to action. If we want to stop terrorist acts, the mullahs must know there are real consequences. This is the fundamental principle of deterrence. We need to see and treat the regime for what it is.”
Albanian MP Edmond Spaho
“The time for change in Iran has come. The international community must support the struggle of the Iranian people for people. The U.S. Congress resolution called on the international community to close down Iran’s diplomatic missions. These missions are involved in terrorist activities. Albania stands firm against any kind of terrorism. We support the Iranian opposition.
“All representatives of Iranian intelligence agencies should not be allowed in our country. Madam Rajavi’s ten-point plan supports a free democratic and secular Iran.”
Former New York Mayor Rudy Giuliani
“We are starting to feel that freedom in Iran is getting closer. When the protests began in Iran, the regime thought they could put it out in short order. But they were faced with a U.S. administration that did not turn its back.
“Iran uses a lot of their money to fund terrorism all over the world, which is why they have been acknowledged as the leading state-sponsor of the world.
“Today, the people in the streets of Iran are calling for the overthrow of Iran, and they are holding up pictures of Madam Rajavi and the MEK.
“There is something we can do to help. We must get European government to support decency, what they stand for: democracy and freedom. They should be on the side of your freedom and not the side of greed. The more pressure we put on Iran, the faster this can happen.
“I can assure you the American people are too intelligent to take a step backward. I believe we will have a continuation of a policy that will continue to isolate Iran and maximum pressure because they are slaughtering their own people.
“For Iran, we have a government that is ready and is ready for the transition and the elections. I see a very strong path. The regime of terror will end.”
Amb. Adam Ereli
“The MEK has done a great deal for the people of Iran and for the world. But the greatest testimony to your effectiveness is the fact that the Iranian regime hates you so much. They consider you a threat, and whatever is bad for the Iranian regime is good for the rest of the world.
“Those who support you in the U.S. and Europe also testify to your power. Inside Iran, we have seen in the past year-and-half that the people are fed up with the mullahs and are rising up. The people of Iran are not stopping, they are stronger than ever.
“I have seen first hand that the Iranian regime has a sophisticated and coordinated plan to spread terror and violence and destabilization in the region. The kind of oppression and violence they use against their own people, the use against anyone who opposes them.
“The MEK has been exposing this conspiracy of terror by the government of Tehran over many years. And this is why not only they have tried to destroy you inside Iran, but they have also tried to demonize you outside of Iran. They have tried to convince governments that MEK is an outlaw organization and has no support inside Iran. But the fact that they are saying this is proof that the opposite is true.
“The power of Iran lies in its people, and the friends of Iran and MEK need to do everything they can to support the people and opposition movements like the MEK who are at the frontlines of trying to build a peaceful Iran along the lines of Madam Rajavi’s ten-point plan.
“Another thing we need to do is focus on countering the propaganda campaign against the MEK. The Iranian regime is trying to out-propagandize you. It is important for us to tell the truth about the Iranian opposition and allow the rest of the world to understand that the MEK stands for freedom.”
Riad Yassin Abdallah, former Yemeni Foreign Minister and Ambassador to France
“The free Iranian people are standing up against the murderous regime. The regime is falling apart from inside. Their proxies are failing. We must ask what we can do to stop the interference of the regime. Iran is trying to fabricate and make more crises.
“Today, we must stand by the NCRI and the MEK, the Iranian people who love peace and humanity will be victorious and the interventions of the Iranian regime will stop.”
Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee
“When you have democracy, you can take care of those who are in need. It is important to condemn human rights violations in Iran. I support the ten-point plan of Madam Rajavi to support a free, democratic and nuclear-free Iran.
“I support Albanian officials who expelled the Iranian regime terrorists from their land. I urge Albania to close the Iranian embassy. We must stand united and recognize that the Albanian government is good in its desire and by taking the courageous step to host the MEK.
“We are looking for a time when the leadership of Iran will be one that is democratic, secular and supportive of freedom. We should never stand away from justice, equality and freedom for everyone. I support your efforts for democracy. Keep moving in that direction so that all Iranians can enjoy freedom and democracy.”
Albanian MP Endri Hasa
“We strongly condemn the killing of thousands of innocent Iranians by the brutal regime. The situation in Iran has become even worse during the Covid-19 pandemic. The Iranian regime must be held responsible. We stand alongside the Iranian people. We stand firm against all forms of repression, terrorism and export of fundamentalism. We support an Iran that is non-nuclear, democratic and secular.”
Former Albanian Minister and MP Grida Duma
“Madam Rajavi represents a hope for treasure, not only for freedom of Iran, but for the freedom of each Iranian individual after. Action against Iran’s malign behavior is necessary. Albania expelled Iran’s ambassador and intelligence attache in 2018. The regime spends billions of dollars to support the Assad regime and its proxies in other countries.
“Iranians have rejected both theocracy and monarchists. I support Madam Rajavi’s ten-point plan. I have no doubt that soon the day will come that Madam Rajavi will be able to put her plan into effect. We thank you for giving us the chance to be on the right side of history.”
Rep. Tom McClintock
“What you’re doing will assure peace and security of the world against the Iranian regime. There is one issue that still unites the American people and that is the work you’re doing.
“The regime is abusing its power, suppressing its people, and threatening the world. We in the U.S. Congress believe that shutting down the Iranian regime’s embassy in Albania will make all Albanians more secure.
“The U.S. stands squarely with the freedom-loving people of Iran and must show leadership against the tyranny of the ayatollahs. The arms embargo against the regime must be extended and snapback sanctions reinstated.
“The American people and freedom-loving people around the world are inspired by your courage and stand by your struggle.”
Rep. Ted Deutch
“Thousands of Iranians have suffered arrest and death for standing up against the regime of Iran. We support the people’s struggle against the Iranian regime.
“Our resolution condemns the Iranian regime’s human rights abuses and calls on all governments to support the Iranian people.
Rep. Tom Emmer
“I co-sponsored a resolution in Congress that condemns the Iranian regime’s sponsorship of terrorism and human rights abuses. I look forward to the day where all Iranians enjoy freedom of expression and freedom.”
Syrian opposition official Naser al-Hariri
“We are struggling against the same enemy. We must reaffirm our commitment against the Iranian regime and its policy of hatred. The regime has consumed the resources of the people and abandoned them in poverty. They don’t listen to the demands of the people. They employ terrorism to destroy the opposition.
“This regime’s terrorist policies are to subjugate the people of Iran and continue to waste their resources on Hezbollah and the Houthis in Yemen. This is a wealthy nation but many of its people are under the line of poverty. This regime is the source of international terrorism and spreads terrorism in Europe, Africa, and Latin America.
“This regime has tarnished the image of the Iranian people across the world. This regime has concentrated its tyranny on people and uses propaganda against the opposition to deceive the people and the world.
“The people will outlive their persecutors. The dawn of freedom for the people of Iran and Syria will arrive soon. These regimes will go to the waste bins of history.”
Rep. David Trone
“The people of Iran deserve a government of their choosing. The protests in November 2019 were a legitimate expression of grievance against the government. My colleagues and I strongly condemned human rights abuses by the Iranian regime.
“The Iranian regime pursues its own corrupt interests in the region instead of acting in the interests of its people.”
Rep. Todd Young
“We need an Iran that supports the people not a regime of tyrants. We need an Iran that is brought into better behavior. I support sanctions against the Iranain regime because of their human rights abuses, their export of terrorism and fundamentalism.
“I will continue to stand with you for a free Iran.”
Rep. Ralph Norman
“Democracy is a treasure that must be fought for. We support freedom-loving Iranians. We have imposed sanctions on the regime of terror. I am troubled by the suppression of protesters who have stood up for their freedom in Iran. We have a pro-democracy movement in Congress that supports the rights of the people of Iran and condemns the regime for its human rights abuses. Its hostile actions are an affront to humanity. Iran will have its Independence Day.”
Rep. Donald Payne Jr.
“Iran is ready to return to democracy. The people of Iran are tired of tyranny. They’re not tied to the goals and ideology of their rulers. The current government does not speak for the people. Your movement show our state and country that Iranians are ready for change. I’m proud to support your efforts.
Rep. Don Bacon
“America stands with the freedom-loving people of Iran. The Iranian government killed 1,500 peaceful protesters in November 2019. We stand with the people of Iran who want their freedom back. We also oppose what Iran is doing in the region, undermining their neighbors. Our goal is to have a freedom-loving Iran that is nuclear-free and respects its neighbors. I’m a friend of the people of Iran, not its government.”
Rep. Tim Burchett
“The Iranian government can’t be trusted. They sponsor terrorism and suppress their citizens, escalate tensions in the region. I support your quest for freedom.”
Former Albanian MP Namik Kolpliku
“As a representative of the Iranian-Albanian Association, I would like to emphasize that there are thousands of Ashrafs in Albania. You have support not only in Albania but the entire international community. This will help us under the leadership of Madam Rajavi to have freedom and democracy in Iran very soon. We do not consider you as temporary residents of Albania. You are our brothers and sisters. We are with you. We know what it means to fight for freedom and democracy. We will always be on your side.”
Renowned Albanian writer Diana Culi
“The world knows very well the atrocities of the Iranian regime and the Iranian society is on the verge of an uprising. I had many conversations with the residents of Ashraf. I met wonderful women in Ashraf who had made the choice to fight for the freedom of their country since their youth. They love their country and want their people to be happy. The women who sacrificed their lives for freedom will never be forgotten.
“Mrs. Rajavi has a vision for a modern Iranian society based on equality. I’m happy I had the chance to understand the history of the MEK and why they never rest to bring change in their country.
“We stand firm against the Iranain regime’s terrorism and fundamentalism in Albania and elsewhere. We stand with the MEK and NCRI, and Madam Rajavi.”
Renowned Albanian composer Zhani Ciko
“Some outlets try to cover the truth but they can’t do it because the light of the truth can’t be destroyed. We declare our solidarity with you and support the brave actions of the Albanian government to support the Iranian Resistance and condemn the terrorist activities of Iranian regime diplomats. These actions deserve the expelling of regime authorities from our country. I express my solidarity with this conference.”
Lord Carlile, QC
“Under the current regime, Iran has become the leading state-sponsor of terrorism. It is also involved in cyberterrorism. The NCRI has played an instrumental role in exposing the regime’s terrorist activities. I would welcome clearer action by the EU and the UK government against the Iranian regime. There seems to be a tendency towards compromise. There’s a real alternative outside of Iran that seeks to reshape the future of Iran.”
Emiriana Sako, Mayor of Durrës, the town near Ashraf 3 in Albania
“I support the fight of the Iranian people for freedom and democracy. We Albanians host the MEK in our country. It is in our tradition to open our doors for people who are in danger. During the past three years the MEK have established friendly relations with the local communities. I would like to say Ashraf 3 has played a positive role in the area and provided humanitarian aid to the locals. I wish you a fast return to your country when freedom and democracy is established.”
Albanian MP Orjola Pampuri
“Your beautiful country is suffering from lack of freedom. They need someone who cares for them. No one does that better than Madam Rajavi. We stand with you in your struggle for freedom. Your victory is our victory.”
Khaliyeh Arrahal, mother of Khaled Issa, Syrian photojournalist killed in 2016
“I stand with my sister Maryam Rajavi to achieve peace and equality in Iran. It’s not impossible to achieve peace.”
Gen. Ahmad Arrahal, Syrian military and strategic analyst
“The regime in Iran is oppressive both inside and outside of Iran. It has become a dilemma for all countries in the region. We need to bring down this regime. The mullahs’ regime wants to concentrate all power in the Supreme Leader. This does not promote liberty. We need to end this regime before we can restore relations between Iran and Arab countries. The NCRI and MEK are the beacon and the democratic replacement for the mullahs’ regime. Long live the NCRI and the revolution of the Iranian and Syrian people.”
Rep. Mario Diaz-Balart
“The United States stands with the Iranian people for a free, democratic and non-nuclear Iran. They have the right to choose their leaders. They deserve absolute, total freedom. And I stand with this cause.”
Former Albanian Minister Drita Advyli
“We all know that Iranian diplomats have been expelled from Albania for their involvement in terrorist plots against MEK members. If the Iranian regime can’t tolerate opponents thousands of kilometers away from their home, we can only imagine what they do with people in their country. They recently executed a man just because he had drunk alcohol. By executing a person for something that is not a crime, the regime wants to scare the people. The regime wants to execute students for supporting the MEK. We in Albania have experience and can say that cruelty will not silence the people. Hostage-taking will not save the regime.
“Albania is the second home of Iranian opposition. We know that if we stand together, and with a leader like Madam Rajavi, we will achieve a free Iran.”
Sevim Arbana—Nobel Peace Prize Candidate in 2005, well-known women’s rights advocate
“An Iranian regime court considered the killing of a 14-year-old by her father as an ‘honor’ killing. There was no honor. In the Iranian justice system it’s not a crime to kill a girl. What is a crime is to be against the regime.
“Unfortunately, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights did not condemn this crime. We must speak up against the regime’s barbarity. I call on everyone not to remain silent. I have supported the Iranian opposition for years. I’m optimistic that Madam Rajavi’s ten-point plan is a strong plan for freedom and democracy in Iran.”
Albanian MP Fatbardha Kadiu
“Iran has been captured hostage by the dictatorial regime. The arrest of the November 2019 uprising protesters is horrifying. The regime committed too many crimes in 1988 and has not been brought to justice yet. This is why it continues to massacre its citizens. The international community must not remain silent. We must stand with Iranian citizens to establish democracy in their country. When it comes to this kind of situation, we stand with you and support you to achieve your victory in establishing a democratic government in Iran.”
Albanian lawyer Margarita Kola
“Demonization campaigns are trying to portray the wrong picture about you here in Albania. But Ashraf symbolizes the Iranian people’s history of struggle for freedom. Albanians are seeing through the dark shadows of propaganda. Nothing justifies terrorism. Three Iranian operatives were expelled because of their terrorist attempts against MEK members. I cherish the decision of the Belgium judiciary to try the Iranian regime diplomat who attempted to bomb an Iranian Resistance gathering in 2018.
“Albania’s fight against the Iranian regime’s terrorist activities is setting an example for other countries. We are proud to stand on the right side of history.”
Gen. George Casey, 36th Chief of Staff of the United States Army
“As Coalition commander I saw how Iran used terrorism to foment sectarian violence in Iraq. I firmly believe this regime will be a profoundly destabilizing force in the region and the world as long as it remains in power.
“Iran uses the Quds Force to destabilize countries. I firmly believe that [Tehran] actively using terror to accomplish its objectives is a problem not only for its people but for the international community. This regime will not change and will remain a destabilizing force as long as it remains in power. It can’t be a productive player. Change must come to Iran.”
Message from the Manz Municipality, a town near Ashraf 3, Albania
We, like many Albanians, support Ashraf 3, and we understand the lies of the mullahs. We hope the region and the world will be liberated from the mullahs. We wish for Iran and Albania to have friendly relations.
