Iran Freedom

Iranian Opposition Marks First Anniversary of November Protests

Iranian youths affiliated to the Iranian opposition National Council of Resistance of Iran mark the first anniversary of the November 2019 protests.

In an online conference hosted by the Iranian opposition National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), thousands of Iranians attended the event, marking the first anniversary of the November 2019 uprising. In mid-November 2019, nationwide protests rapidly swept nearly 200 cities across Iran.

Hundreds of thousands of outrage protesters came into the streets, showing their complaint against the sudden rise of gasoline prices. However, the regime’s security forces responded to defenseless demonstrators with live ammunition, killing at least 1,500 protesters.

During two days, the Revolutionary Guard Corps and other oppressive forces did whatever they could to stifle protests, according to the supreme leader Ali Khamenei‘s decree. They arbitrary detained over 12,000 demonstrators, targeted protesters and bystanders by heavy machineguns, snipers, and helicopters. However, they merely fueled the people’s wrath against the entire regime.

At the time, supporters of the Mojahedin-e Khalq (MEK/PMOI) played crucial role in organizing and leading protests. MEK supporters who are known as the Resistance Units show unbelievable bravery versus the regime’s cruelty, which prompted many citizens to join the struggle for freedom and justice.

On the first anniversary of the November uprising, many distinguished guests from different countries joined the NCRI webinar, commemorating the Iranian people’s desire for a free Iran. As the event’s keynote speaker, Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, the NCRI President-elect, highlighted the continuation of Iranians’ protests for freedom.

NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi

“The uprising in November 2019 was neither indiscriminate nor spontaneous… It had no ties with any of the regime’s factions and no connections to any world power or government,” said NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi in her speech.

“On the contrary, the November uprising emanated from the Iranian people’s independent and liberating resolve. It was a genuine example of a revolt and a struggle to overthrow the regime. Its driving force were the deprived but aware youths inspired by Resistance Units. It was an example which implemented the strategy of the PMOI/MEK, the strategy of Resistance Units and Rebellious Cities.

“In November 2019, the regime began killing protesters from the onset. The slaughter took on a much greater scale on November 17, upon Khamenei’s order. He told his suppressive agencies to ‘fulfill their duties’ with regard to the protesters. This was an order for a ruthless massacre,” she said.

“It was a crime against humanity. [The regime’s Supreme Leader Ali] Khamenei, [mullahs’ President Hassan] Rouhani, [secretary of the regime’s Supreme Security Council, Ali] Shamkhani, Revolutionary Guards (IRGC) and Bassij commanders, and State Security Forces commanders must face justice for this massacre,” she added.

“[The November 2019 uprising] was a manifestation of the burning determination that will continue to carry on until the mullahs’ religious dictatorship is overthrown… This uprising will carry on until the regime is overthrown in its entirety,” the NCRI President-elect continued.

Íngrid Betancourt, former Colombian senator and presidential candidate at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Íngrid Betancourt, former Colombian senator and presidential candidate

“It is our duty to point our fingers at the criminals who murdered protesters in Iran. World leaders must take action now. What happens in Iran has consequences in our daily lives. The religious terrorism that strikes our streets has been financed by Iran. This has been shown in numerous trials, including the one being held this month in Antwerp, Belgium,” said Íngrid Betancourt at the event.

“The social classes who are thought to be the legitimizing backbone of the regime were the ones who were chanting slogans against the Khamenei and Rouhani in the streets and were shot to death by security forces… We need Europe as the Union and each European leader to take an immediate and exemplifying stand by first, avoiding to sell weapons to the mullahs, and second, by not conducting any nuclear deal with Iran that would give a lifeline to this bloodthirsty killing machine,” former Colombian presidential candidate added.

Swedish MP Magnus Oscasrsson at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran-min

Swedish MP Magnus Oscasrsson

“We need to work for democracy in Iran. We need change, a standard democracy. In different cities, people are rising up and saying it’s enough. It’s time for Sweden to support Iranian democracy. My friends, don’t give up, we stand with you in this struggle for freedom and fundamental rights,” Magnus Oscasrsson said.

British MP Theresa Villiers, former Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

British MP Theresa Villiers, former British Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs

“The international community must now intervene to stop the culture of impunity in Iran in order to prevent another massacre of dissidents in the regime’s prisons. Silence is not an option and the international community and Western democracies must stand with the Iranian people and the organized Resistance movement as they continue to challenge the regime to establish a free and democratic Iran,” Theresa Villiers said.

“The NCRI and its president-elect Madam Rajavi have put forward a democratic platform for a future Iran and spearhead the global campaign to hold the regime to account for its past and current human rights abuses and crimes against humanity. I urge the UK Government to support the struggle for accountability and a democratic change in Iran by recognizing and engaging with the NCRI as the true representative of the Iranian people and their democratic aspirations. The UK must also take the lead in Europe to increase pressure on the regime in Iran through punitive measures and proscribing the IRGC in its entirety,” former British Secretary added.

Behrouz Maghsoudi, representative of the Iranian Youths Association in Norway at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Behrouz Maghsoudi, representative of the Iranian Youths Association in Norway

“The November 2019 uprising was clearly a rebellion against the religious fascism in our country. The protesters knew that they will neither have the freedom nor decent livelihoods as long as the regime is in power… The November 2019 protester wanted the overthrow of the regime in its entirety and the establishment of a democratic republic, chanting: “Down with Khamenei,” “We don’t want the mullahs’ regime,” and “Death to the tyrant, be it the Shah or the Supreme Leader,” Behrouz Maghsoudi said.

“The Union of Democratic Youth has the following points to make:

1- The Iranian society is in an explosive state. The only solution for Iran is the overthrow of the regime

2- The November 2019 protests showed that the people endorse the strategy of Resistance Units and rebellion to overthrow this regime. There is no solution within this regime.

3- The regime considers the Iranian Resistance as its main threat and will not refrain from any crime to eliminate the opposition.

4- There’s a need for a firm policy to prevent the regime’s terrorism. All embassies of the regime must be shut down. The IRGC and the Ministry of Intelligence and Security (MOIS) must be designated as terrorist entities.

5- We want the freedom of all political prisoners,” he highlighted.

Dr. Ramesh Sepehrrad, Adjunct Faculty at George Mason University at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Dr. Ramesh Sepehrrad, Adjunct Faculty at George Mason University

“The message of the uprising was that the regime must go and it is on the verge of collapse… The regime’s tactics of terrorism and repression to scare the people are no longer effective. Generation after generation, the people of Iran have stood and supported the MEK. The resistance has its roots in Iranian society,” Dr. Ramesh Sepehrrad said.

“The mullahs have not refrained from any tactic to eliminate the MEK, including terrorism, rocket attacks, demonization campaigns, and the execution of MEK members and supporters. All the while MEK members in Ashraf 3 and the Resistance Units inside Iran have become the regime’s nightmare,” she added.

Omid Behrooz, Dentist and spokesperson of the Iranian Associations in Norway at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Omid Behrooz, Dentist and spokesperson of the Iranian Associations in Norway

“The main strategy for change in Iran lies in disbanding the IRGC, not working with them as some have proposed. The symbol of this strategy is the Resistance Units. This is the solution that the regime is afraid of, and the reason why the regime is focused on terrorism and propaganda against the Iranian Resistance,” Dr. Omid Behrooz said.

“Hail to the Iranian Resistance Units, who are the key to democratic change in Iran,” he ended.

MEK member Niloofar Alamian at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

MEK member Niloofar Alamian

“We are proud of this generation that has stood up against the monstrous, blood-thirsty regime and is treading the path of overthrowing this regime, which was started by Iranian Resistance leader Massoud Rajavi and continues to this day… We were thrilled to see the women of my country leading the protests and being the first to chant ‘Down with Khamenei!'” Niloofar Alamian said.

“Hearing these stories reminded me of the stories of my brave sisters in Ashraf, Iraq, who resisted against the brutal proxy forces of the Iranian regime. We have learned from Maryam Rajavi that we can and we must. These days, we are learning that we must all think like Madam Rajavi and prove that we can and we must,” she added.

Mitchell Reiss, Director of Policy Planning at the Department of State at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Mitchell Reiss, Director of Policy Planning at the Department of State (2003-2005), US Special Envoy for Northern Ireland (2003-2007)

“These protests took place because the Iranian people only wish what people all over the world wish for – the basic human right to live in freedom, to raise your family without fear, to elect honest officials who will represent your best interests and not steal from you, and to live a life of dignity,” Mitchell Reiss said.

“You and your colleagues all over Iran have made it clear that you want a change from this illegitimate regime.

Your courage and bravery in the face of the regime’s violence and repression is inspiring.  

This is a regime that once more revealed its true nature in how it responded to the protests.

This is a regime that is fundamentally weak and unsure of itself, not strong and self-confident.

This is a regime that does not respect the lives of its own citizens. 

This is a regime that does not trust its own citizens to know the truth.

This is a regime that resorts to violence to silence the voices of the people. 

This is a regime that blames others for its own failures.

This is a regime that is corrupt and a massive violator of human rights.

This is a regime that is irreformable and incapable of serving the people of Iran.

This is a regime that fears its own people.

Above all, this is a regime that fears the MEK and what it stands for,” he highlighted.

This is a regime that fears Madame Rajavi especially, and her ten-point plan to bring democracy, truly representative government, and the rule of law to Iran,” Amb. Reiss added.

“In sum, the heroic protests we witnessed last year are part of larger trends that are strengthening the opposition and weakening the regime in Tehran… A democratic future for Iran is closer today than ever before… Please know that all freedom-loving people of the world over all stand with you,” he ended.

Zamaa Swazi Dlamini-Mandela, human rights activist and grand daughter of the late South African President Nelson Mandela at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Princess Zamaa Swazi Dlamini-Mandela, human rights activist and granddaughter of the late South African President Nelson Mandela

“The Iranian people are in need of peace, justice, and political prosperity. The people of Iran reject tyranny and demand freedom… The people of Iran have turned to the international community to boycott the regime. The NCRI led by Maryam Rajavi is the Iranian people’s opposition to the current regime,” said Zamaa Swazi Dlamini-Mandela.

“As a global village, we are each responsible to stand up and stand together with the people of Iran. As we honor the martyrs of November 2019, we must remember there is no easy path to freedom. Let us stand together in solidarity and compassion, and support Madam Rajavi’s plan for the future of Iran,” human rights activist and granddaughter of the late South African President Nelson Mandela added.

Theresa Payton, former White House Chief Information Officer at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Theresa Payton, White House Chief Information Officer for President George W. Bush

“Iran’s goal is to drive positive news about its current regime and manipulate its own people to ensure undying support for its political interests. The regime bans social media but its officials have access to them… The Iranian regime is engaged in creating fake accounts on Twitter and other social media outlets to spread misinformation against the Iranian opposition, namely the MEK. Iran’s regime hides behind cyber operatives and fake personas,” Theresa Payton said.

“Iranian hackers hacked into encrypted apps to gather intelligence. The regime is meddling in the affairs of the United States… The regime scrambles to find ways to increase influence over citizens. And this is why Iranians are increasing their means to circumvent the regime’s censorship,” she explained.

“The world needs to come together and dedicate ourselves to enable the citizens of Iran to achieve a free Iran. We must help the people of Iran share news about threats to their desire for freedom and democracy. We must have an active threat-hunting effort against the regime’s attempts on the opposition,” former White House Chief Information Officer added.

Belgian Senator Else Ampe at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Belgian Senator Else Ampe

“The Iranian government’s violence is condemned by the UN and Amnesty International. I demand the immediate release of all protesters detained in justified protests. The people of Iran can’t even speak their minds,” said Sen. Else Ampe.

“To the people of Iran, your victory will be cherished and your path will be followed. You are the future of Iran and you will prevail,” she added.

MEK member Behnam Karimi at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

MEK member Behnam Karimi

“The generations who for decades were bombarded by regime propaganda are now stepping foot in the path of the MEK. The regime will not refrain from any means to stay in power. The regime is engaged in widespread propaganda efforts against the MEK to justify killing their members and supporters. The regime fears the MEK because they are organized and united, with the will and power to fight for freedom,” said Behnam Karimi.

“The MEK has a well-known leader who has a long-standing history of fighting for freedom through trials and tribulations. The MEK has not surrendered to the regime under any circumstances and has made sacrifices. Maryam Rajavi has empowered the women of Iran, who are suppressed by the regime, and women have leadership roles in the MEK. The mullahs try to portray its enemies as the enemies of Islam, but the MEK has since its founding rejected any religious divides between the people and have only recognized one division: the oppressors and the oppressed.  The MEK is fighting for the rights of every Iranian individual,” he added.

Norwegian MP Geir Sigbjorn Toskedal, Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Norwegian MP Geir Sigbjorn Toskedal, Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee

“I want to emphasize that the Iranian population is among the youngest populations in the world with more than 40% born after the 1979 revolution. They were born and raised under the current dictatorship but on every occasion, they have shown their desire for freedom and democratic values that we cherish in the West,” said MP Geir Sigbjorn Toskedal.

“Last year 1,500 protesters, mostly young people but including dozens of children were massacred in hundreds of cities across Iran. Indiscriminate shootings by the regime’s IRGC and security forces, including snipers, created a shockwave across the world. However, I believe firmly that the international response to a crime of this magnitude was not adequate at all and we need to do a lot more. Re-imposing UN sanctions against this brutal regime are amongst them,” he added.

Neda Amani, women’s football team coach in Switzerland at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Neda Amani, women’s football team coach in Switzerland

“We Iranian youth despise appeasement and appeasers who stand with the Iranian regime and don’t recognize our people’s rights… We will stand against the appeasement policy and will not allow any government to support the tyrannical goals of the regime. We will overthrow this regime… Whether the regime and its appeasers like it or not, the voice of our people are echoed by Iranian Resistance Units,” said Neda Amani.

Ali Fatemi, President of the Iranian Youth Association of Luxembourg at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Ali Fatemi, President of the Iranian Youth Association of Luxembourg

“The November uprising started because of the price of gasoline, yet since the people are fed up with the regime, it spread across the country and everyone stressed that they wanted regime change,” said Ali Fatemi.

“The slogan “Down with Khamenei!” echoed in every town and street. This is a movement that continues, and we’ve seen it on numerous occasions after the November 2019 protests… This uprising also showed the unprecedented role of the MEK, which was certified by Khamenei himself and other regime officials,” he added.

Amir Seifi from the Iranian community of Ireland at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Amir Seifi from the Iranian community of Ireland 

“The regime tried to dissolve us into its system through repression and brainwashing. But many of us chose resistance and rebellion. And every day, our ranks are growing… In 2017, Iran’s students targeted by the regime’s reformism propaganda chanted, ‘Reformists, principalists, the game is over,'” said Amir Seifi.

MEK member Sara Rahili at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

MEK member Sara Rahili

“During the November 2019 protests, I saw myself with all the families who lost their loved ones. I remembered the days of the summer of 1988 when my father was executed by the regime along with 30,000 other prisoners. We weren’t even allowed to commemorate the dead. We were not even told where they were buried,” said Sara Rahili.

“The November 2019 protests were the continuation of that movement and proof that the struggle for freedom continues. To all the families of the martyrs, I say that their blood and sacrifice has not been in vain. We will continue their path. This is our commitment,” MEK member added.

Martin Patzelt, Member of the German Bundestag at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Martin Patzelt, Member of the German Bundestag

“The Iranian regime uses terrorism to suppress resistance and dissidents. We need to open our eyes to the use of Iranian cultural institutions and diplomatic facilities for terrorism. The IRGC uses them to bring sleeper cells to Europe. The trial of Assadollah Assadi is a chance to unveil how the regime uses its diplomatic institutions for terrorism,” said Martin Patzelt.

“The regime tries to defame the resistance movement, but it no longer helps the regime in holding on to power. The resistance is gaining more credibility inside Iran and across the globe. The protests in 2018 and 2019 showed the entire world that the regime’s claims that the MEK is a small movement are not true. And this was proven by the regime’s terrorist attempts against the resistance movement in France and Albania,” member of German Bundestag added.

Italian Senator Roberto Rampi at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Italian Senator Roberto Rampi

“We in the West have the obligation to support the call of Maryam Rajavi to send a delegation to investigate the situation in Iran’s prisons. We know that this regime is a terrorist regime. Assadi’s case is just one instance that shows Iran is a government that finances terrorism,” Sen. Roberto Rampi said.

“We can’t tolerate this regime. The orders for this terror attack came directly from the government and the regime’s leadership. How is it possible to have a relationship with such a government that protects and provides refuge for terrorists?” he added.

Kimmo Sassi, Former Finnish Minister and MP at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Kimmo Sassi, Former Finnish Minister and MP

“The regime lies about the numbers of coronavirus casualties because it fears further protests. Last year, the regime killed 1,500 protesters. An independent fact-finding mission must investigate the regime’s crimes. The international community was shocked by the execution of wrestling champion Navid Afkari,” said Kimmo Sassi.

“The Iranian regime is nervous and terrified of popular protests. I believe in democracy, human rights, the rule of law, and market economy free of corruption. Democracy is the main guarantee for a good future. History shows that freedom eventually prevails and dictatorship fails,” he added.

“What can we do to support the Iranian people? We in the international community must stand with the Iranian people. We need sanctions against the regime’s leaders. They must know there’s no escape from responsibility for their crimes. Cooperation with Iran must start when Iran has a democratic government,” former Finnish minister and MP said.

San Marino MP Marica Montemaggi at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

San Marino MP Marica Montemaggi 

“The Iranian people want to get rid of the theocratic regime and want true democracy. The government keeps investing in projects that have nothing to do with the health and safety of the people despite the pandemic,” said Marcia Montemaggi.

“Iran has thousands of people who have been imprisoned and are suffering torture. We can’t remain silent on this. We must support the NCRI, which is working for peace and peaceful coexistence with the international community. We in San Marino support Madam Rajavi’s ten-point plan. We stand on the side of democracy and the people of Iran,” San Marino MP added.

Italian MP Chiara Gribaudo at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

Italian MP Chiara Gribaudo

“An independent mission must investigate the situation of prisons in Iran. We are very worried about the situation of prisoners, including the tortures and conditions they are enduring, as well as the executions that are taking place,” said Chiara Gribaudo.

“Torture is the tool the regime uses every day in its prisons. The rule of law is non-existent. There are secret centers where people are tortured to extract information. The regime must allow an independent mission to visit prisons. The European Union has an important role. This is a geopolitical problem that must be analyzed thoroughly. The EU must respond to the request of Maryam Rajavi to prevent further torture,” Italian MP added.

MEK member Amir Pasha Borjkhani at the commemorating event of the November 2019 protests in Iran

MEK member Amir Pasha Borjkhani

“The mullahs have used every means to prevent their inevitable downfall. The mullahs are constantly saying they are afraid of another uprising. They are humiliating youths in the streets. There are many signs of Iran’s society being on the verge of an explosion. The mullahs tried to use the Covid-19 pandemic as a shield for their regime against further protests,” said Amir Pasha Borjkhani.

“The regime’s lobbies are using different fronts and pretexts in the West to demonize the MEK. We are proud to follow Massoud Rajavi and Maryam Rajavi, and our identity as MEK members. These tactics are now failing and will not bring security for the regime. We are committed to overthrowing this regime, and together with the Resistance Units, we will achieve this,” MEK member added.

Elaheh Zabihian from the Iranian community in the UK

“The people of Iran collectively rejected the religious fascism ruling Iran in recent uprisings. The regime’s terror plot against the Iranian Resistance in 2018 was the regime’s response to the people’s uprisings, which utterly failed… The regime is desperate regarding the continued activities of Resistance Units, which show the overthrow of the regime is not only a national desire, but a reality that will soon come to pass,” said Elaheh Zabihian.

“Instead of economic relations with the Iranian regime to the benefit of the IRGC, western governments must designate the IRGC and MOIS as terrorist organizations and shut down the regime’s embassies. The mullahs’ time is over,” she added.

Hasti Hesami, Medical Dosimetrist representing the Iranian American Community of North Texas

“There is a will to stand up in Iran. This is the kind of will we see in Ashraf, where the regime tried to bring an end to the MEK through brutal attacks. But the MEK members resisted in Ashraf and defeated the regime. We see the same kind of spirit in the youth of Iran, who are resisting the regime,” said Hasti Hesami.

Danish MP Uffe Elbaek

“There has been an ongoing struggle for freedom in Iran for the last 40 years. The work you are doing is very important. Keep up the spirit and the good work. We all have to stand up for democracy and human rights,” said MP Uffe Elbaek.

Jonathan de Patoul, Member of the Brussels Francophone Parliament

“Millions of people in Iran are raising their voice for justice and freedom. We must support their desires and be their voice,” said Jonathan de Patoul.

Hoda Imad, central board member of AUF, deputy leader and education policy spokesperson in Viken AP

“The Iranian people demand basic human rights to express themselves without fear of persecution. That should not be too much to ask for. Iran’s youth should not be in jail and not know if they will survive the next day. It’s time for all of us to raise our voice in solidarity with the people of Iran,” said Hoda Imad.

“No one is free until everyone is free. The demands and dreams for freedom and justice of the people of Iran will win. We share your dreams and stand with you in your fight for democracy,” she added.

Italian Mayor Andrea Gavazza

“We hope to put an end to the tyranny of the Iranian regime. We express our solidarity and welcome the youth. They are our hope for change during times like these. During the pandemic, some regime’s have been hiding information. We younger people are the key for this peaceful revolution,” said Andrea Gavazza.

Mario Barbaro, Member of the General Council of the Italian Radical Party

“I support your fight for democracy, especially the democratic youth of Iran who are building the future of their country. Democracy will never be given as a gift and we must defend it. The November 2019 protests and all the people who lost their lives in the uprising show that you do not lack courage,” said Mario Barbaro.

Parsa Zolfaghari, member of the Iranian Youth Association in Switzerland 

“I left Iran nine years ago. I grew up in a family that supports the MEK. The regime always persecuted MEK supporters in Iran. The mullahs are always cracking down on support for MEK inside Iran. As I grew up, I understood that the MEK are the only fighters who are standing up against the regime. My uncle Younes was executed with 30,000 other political prisoners. The blood of those martyrs came to life in the 2019 uprising,” said Parsa Zolfaghari.

Pegah Jahanmiri of the Iranian youths in Germany

“We will never forget those who laid their lives for freedom. We support the protesters and the Resistance Units. The regime knows that while there are brave youths in Shiraz and other cities in Iran, it has no future. We will not stop calling for freedom. Resistance Units are symbols of freedom and the MEK’s fight for freedom. I am proud to say I am a supporter of the MEK,” said Pegah Jahanmiri.

Maryam Khalaghdoost, from the Iranian youths in Austria

“I left Iran ten years ago because my family was being chased by the regime. In 2009, I was only 16 years old but was actively present in the protests. The flame of uprising will not die. Because in 2009, I met a girl who was arrested and brutally tortured, but she took back to the streets shortly after her release. And she told me that she will never remain silent in the face of repression. The regime can’t prevent the uprisings no matter how hard it tries,” said Maryam Khalaghdoost.

Vida Amani, of the Iranian youths in Switzerland 

“The 2019 uprising was the extension of the 2018 uprising. The youth made it clear that they are not satisfied with anything less than the overthrow of the regime. More uprisings are on the way and the regime is afraid. We tell the mullahs you are right to be afraid and you should fear even more,” said Vida Amani.

“The regime has acknowledged that the youth are joining the PMOI and the Resistance Units. The regime knows it has no support in Iran. Its lies are exposed. The regime will be overthrown. The victory of our people is near,” she added.

Samira Ardalan, of the Iranian Democratic Youths Association in Italy

“The people know what they want and those desires are symbolized in the PMOI. In the previous uprising the people made it clear that they don’t buy into the regime’s moderation claims and want the overthrow of the regime. This regime has no future other than being overthrown,” said Samira Ardalan.

“The mullahs’ own media are warning about a flood that will wash away the regime. They are torturing protesters, humiliating youth in the streets. They can’t prevent another uprising and their downfall,” she added.

Sara Ehsani, from the Iranian Youths Association in Norway

“I salute the youth who sacrificed their lives for freedom in the November 2019 uprising. The people protested lack of freedom, jobs, livelihoods and more. The uprising took over all of the country. The mullahs responded with bullets. The youth resisted and sacrificed their lives for their struggle,” said Sara Ehsani.

“The regime admitted that Resistance Units, especially young women, played a leading role in the protests. The Resistance Units are showing tremendous courage in their continued activities against the regime. We support the youth and will be their voice,” she added.

Arezu Eshraghi, Director of the Iranian Women Association in the UK

“I was in Iran during the 1999 student uprising of Iran. Former Iranian regime president Mohammad Khatami, supposedly a moderate president, repressed the protests. Mohammd Bagher Ghalibaf, the current speaker of the regime’s Majlis (parliament), was proud of taking part in the crackdown of the protests,” said Arezu Eshraghi.

“The people of Iran have made it clear that they want the overthrow of the regime. It’s not just the students. It is Iranians of all walks of life. It is not just Tehran. It is all across Iran. The regime’s old tactics no longer work. The only way they could stop the 2019 protests was through brutally gunning down protesters. They know that they can’t escape their overthrow. Our society is in a powder keg situation. The people want an Iran that is free of the tyranny of monarchists and the religious fascists,” she added.

Aidin Saidian, from the Iranian Youths Association in the United States

“The key message of the November 2019 uprising was that the Iranian regime is on the verge of being overthrown. It is a backward regime. The regime spends millions of dollars to whitewash their crimes and to push the narrative that they are the only option. But the uprising showed how much the people reject the regime,” said Aidin Saidian.

“The slogans of the November 2019 protests also showed that the people don’t want any despots, whether it is the mullahs or the shah. The regime’s lobbyists will do whatever they can to throw a lifeline to the regime. They try to discredit the Iranian opposition. But at the same time senior officials blame the MEK for the uprisings. The mullahs are afraid of the growing support for MEK inside Iran. This is an organization that is fighting for the people’s rights,” he added.

Maryam Sadeghpour, from the Iranian Women Association in Australia

“People across the globe are supporting the resistance against the fascist regime ruling Iran and the struggle for freedom in Iran. On the 32nd anniversary of the massacre of the 1988 massacre and the first anniversary of the 2019 protests, we pledge our support for all the people who have lost their loved ones and commit to continue our struggle for a bright future for the people of Iran,” said Maryam Sadeghpour.

Ali Pahlavan, from the Iranian Community of Sweden

“The Iranian regime is long overdue. A leader that is not elected has no place in Iran. The NCRI is the only alternative to bring democracy in Iran. It is capable of toppling the regime with the Resistance Units. It has a track record of economic independence. It has a national program with the separation of state and religion. They have international recognition. The NCRI has experienced leaders in Madam Maryam Rajavi and Mr. Massoud Rajavi. Long live Iran,” said Ali Pahlavan.

Fouad Eini, from the Iranian Community of Sweden

“The struggle of the MEK and NCRI has been a source of pride and inspiration in my life. The international community is well aware of the regime’s human rights violations. Iran has large oil and gas reserves and can be one of the richest countries on the planet. However, it is torn apart by poverty. The people pour into the streets to demand a decent life, but they are gunned down by the regime,” said Fouad Eini.

“The regime uses the worst kind of torture to humiliate detainees. This is the reality for 41 years in Iran. The regime knows it is living on borrowed time and its countdown to collapse has started. Who is lending this regime borrowed time? Unfortunately it is the European states. To European leaders, stop putting your heads in sand and break your silence. I hope the Swedish government joins Madam Rajavi’s call for an investigation into the situation of political prisoners in Iran,” he added.

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