Iranian Dissidents Rally in Paris, Seek Overthrow of Government
In Paris, thousands protested against the Iranian government, bolstered by Trump-era policies and support from Ukrainians. The NCRI organized the rally amidst escalating threats against its members. Key speakers called for the fall of the regime and highlighted a shared struggle for democracy among dissidents from Iran and Ukraine.
On Saturday, thousands of Iranian dissidents rallied in Paris, supported by Ukrainians, to demand the overthrow of Iran’s government, encouraged by U.S. President Donald Trump’s policies. The protest was organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), which operates in exile and is banned in Iran. Many participants expressed hope that the U.S. ‘maximum pressure’ strategy could facilitate change in Iran, especially as threats against NCRI members grow more severe.
During the rally, NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi declared, “We say your demise has arrived. With or without negotiations, uprising and overthrow await you.” Protesters displayed Iranian flags and anti-government placards, denouncing Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei. Notably, hundreds of Ukrainians participated, accusing Iran of supporting Russian aggression against Ukraine. One protestor, Iryna Serdiuk, emphasized the unity against these common foes, highlighting the shared goals of both nations’ activists.
Despite criticism surrounding its influence, the NCRI remains a prominent opposition group. Iranian exile Mohammad Sabetraftar stated that the NCRI represents the only legitimate option for achieving democracy in Iran and urged Western leaders to exert maximum pressure on the Iranian government. Additionally, Tehran consistently calls for action against the NCRI internationally, reflecting its desire to suppress dissident movements.
U.S. support for the NCRI was evidenced by the participation of former officials speaking on Trump’s policies aimed at crippling Iran’s economy. Homa Sabetraftar, a schoolgirl representing the youth, highlighted the importance of giving a voice to those unable to protest in Iran. The overarching sentiment at the rally reflected a collective push for democracy and freedom against oppressive regimes.
The context of the protests involves longstanding grievances against the Iranian regime, particularly regarding political repression, human rights abuses, and the government’s alleged activities that compromise regional stability. The NCRI has emerged as a significant voice in the opposition against Iran’s leaders and has garnered some international support, especially from Western nations wary of Iranian influence. Trump’s administration previously adopted a strategy aimed at economically isolating Iran to bring about political changes.
The Paris rally underscores the determination of Iranian dissidents advocating for regime change, bolstered by support from Ukrainians as they face shared challenges from oppressive powers. The NCRI continues to galvanize support despite criticism about its effectiveness within Iran. The protest illustrates the intertwined struggles against authoritarianism and highlights the need for solidarity among dissident movements worldwide.
Original Source: www.hindustantimes.com
