Keir Starmer has expressed strong disapproval over the fatalities of demonstrators in Iran and has called on Tehran to show restraint during a severe crackdown on protests against the government. Reports indicate that at least 62 individuals have been killed and 2,300 individuals have been taken into custody over a series of protests that initially began due to frustrations with Iran’s struggling economy.
In response to the unrest, Iranian authorities have blocked internet access and international phone calls. The Prime Minister, in a joint statement with the leaders of France and Germany, expressed deep concern over the violence by Iranian security forces and unequivocally condemned the deaths of protesters. The leaders emphasized the Iranian government’s duty to safeguard its citizens and allow freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without the threat of retaliation.
The recent wave of demonstrations started on December 28 in reaction to economic issues, expanding into significant challenges against the ruling system. The protests gained momentum nationwide after exiled Crown Prince Reza Pahlavi called for nationwide demonstrations, leading to massive public gatherings chanting slogans against the government. Amid escalating tensions, authorities enforced a complete internet blackout and pledged a forceful response, resulting in numerous detentions and casualties.
Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei accused protesters of aligning with the U.S. President, triggering a war of words with President Donald Trump. Khamenei labeled Trump as complicit in Iranian bloodshed, leading to anti-American sentiments among supporters. State media branded protesters as “terrorists,” setting the stage for a severe crackdown similar to past nationwide uprisings.
Since taking power in 1989, Khamenei has maintained a repressive regime in Iran, imposing strict controls on various aspects of citizens’ lives. The recent protests have reignited calls for the UK government to designate the ruling Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as a terrorist group, aligning with actions taken by the U.S., Canada, and Sweden.
Amid the ongoing turmoil, Mohammad Hanif Jazayeri, a London-based human rights and Iran policy expert, emphasized the need for democratic governments to support the Iranian people in their quest for a free and democratic republic. Jazayeri called for the UK government to officially designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization, showing solidarity with the Iranian populace striving for change.