London – April 3, 2025: The UK Parliament recently hosted a special Nowruz gathering, which brought together Members of Parliament, Lords, and prominent human rights advocates in a powerful show of cross-party solidarity with the people of Iran. The event focused on the themes of renewal, resistance, and the enduring hope for a free and democratic Iran.
Neda Zabeti, in her opening remarks, highlighted the connection between Nowruz, a time of renewal, and the ongoing struggle for freedom in Iran. She emphasized that despite the oppressive regime, the Iranian people continue to resist. She expressed hope that in the coming year, Nowruz would be celebrated in a free Iran.
Sir Desmond Swayne, a Conservative MP and member of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, underscored the united front within the Parliament. He shared insights from ongoing investigations into transnational repression by the Iranian regime and expressed hope for accountability, hoping that the following Nowruz could be celebrated in a free Iran.
Professor Lord David Alton, whose message was read by Ms. Olina Ahoup, described the struggle in Iran as one of the most significant geopolitical developments in the Middle East today. He highlighted the increasing domestic resistance in Iran, despite the regime’s violent repression, and urged the UK to stand with the Iranian people. Lord Alton specifically condemned the regime’s brutality, particularly towards women, and criticized its practices of hostage diplomacy and terrorism. He also called for the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization, emphasizing that Iran’s future lies with its people, who have the courage, plans, and leadership needed to succeed. He further stressed that the UK must stand with them.
Lord Clarke, the former leader of the Labour Party, reflected on four decades of supporting Iranian freedom, recalling efforts to raise awareness about the atrocities committed at Camp Ashraf and Camp Liberty. He called for continued support for democratic change, reminding the audience of the responsibility democracies have to support the Iranian people.
Sir Roger Gale, a Conservative MP and Deputy Speaker (2022–2024), emphasized the moral obligation of democracies to stand with the Iranian people, acknowledging that while the suffering is beyond full comprehension, the right to self-determination should be universally recognized. He expressed support for the cause of the Iranian people, aligning with the vision of Mrs. Rajavi.
Bob Blackman, Co-Chair of the International Committee of Parliamentarians for a Democratic Iran, paid tribute to the resistance at Ashraf 3 and within Iran. He highlighted the momentum of protests and the bravery of political prisoners, commending the strength of the movement led by Maryam Rajavi. Blackman noted that the regime was at a dead end, with its brutality shaking its foundations. He proposed a six-point plan for the UK, including referring Iran’s regime to the UN Security Council, recognizing the democratic aspirations of the Iranian people, and supporting the NCRI and Maryam Rajavi as the legitimate democratic opposition. He also called for the designation of the IRGC as a terrorist organization and urged the reinstatement of UN sanctions to address the nuclear threat. He concluded by saying that Iran was at a turning point and a free and democratic republic was within reach.
Toby Perkins, a Labour MP, underscored the bipartisan support for a free and democratic Iran in Parliament, stating that there was overwhelming agreement across all parties. He looked forward to celebrating the next Nowruz in an Iran where freedom prevails.
Lord Dholakia, Deputy Leader of the Liberal Democrats in the Lords, condemned the sharp rise in executions, noting that these were not just numbers but lives lost. He called for international action, emphasizing the need to recognize the NCRI and Maryam Rajavi as the democratic alternative to the current regime, asserting that the time for action was now.
Hossein Abedini, Deputy Director of the NCRI UK Office, reminded attendees that despite the hardships, Iranians continue to celebrate Nowruz as an act of resilience. He expressed optimism that a free Iran was within reach and acknowledged the crucial role of international support in sustaining the movement.
Azadeh Zabeti, Chair of the Committee of Iranian Lawyers in the UK, honored the unwavering spirit of the Iranian people, who, despite ongoing oppression, have never bowed. She applauded Maryam Rajavi’s leadership, noting her role as a symbol of hope and perseverance for those seeking a free and democratic society.
Lord Singh, an Independent Peer, condemned the regime’s brutality and emphasized that justice, rather than diplomacy, was needed to address the situation. He reflected on his long history of supporting Iran’s struggle for justice, stressing that the world must recognize the NCRI and act not only as politicians but as human beings committed to truth and human rights.
Baroness Altmann, former Minister for Pensions, commended the courage of the Iranian people and expressed her hope for the success of the NCRI. She praised their remarkable work and their dedication to standing for those silenced both inside and outside of Iran.
Lady Valerie Corbett, wife of the late Lord Corbett, paid tribute to Ashraf 3, recalling her husband’s belief that it would endure. She expressed deep concern over the Iranian regime’s oppressive actions, particularly the widespread executions, even of children, and the country’s overall regression. Valerie also voiced her frustration with the international community’s lack of stronger action and, like her late husband, expressed unwavering hope for a free Iran.
Margaret Owen, a human rights lawyer, reflected on her recent experience at the UN, where she met with Iranian women from around the world. She admired their courage in continuing to protest despite the immense dangers they face, including imprisonment, torture, and even execution. Margaret strongly criticized the regime’s actions, particularly the rising executions, and called for its overthrow, supporting Maryam Rajavi’s 10-point plan as the path to a democratic Iran.
Professor Sarah Chandler, former head of the Human Rights Committee of the Law Society of England and Wales, spoke with hope for the Iranian resistance. She highlighted the absence of the rule of law, justice, and human rights in Iran, but also conveyed optimism that with continued resistance, the Iranian people would one day be able to celebrate Nowruz in a free and democratic Iran.
Rachel Maskell, a Labour MP, expressed her deep admiration for those who continually raise the voice of the Iranian people, particularly the women who remain resolute despite ongoing repression. She emphasized the importance of their efforts in educating international audiences about the struggles faced by Iranians, offering her heartfelt tribute to those present at the event and their unyielding courage.
The event was hosted in coordination with the British Committee for Iran Freedom (BCFIF), which continues to campaign for a democratic Iran and accountability for regime crimes.
