A major exiled Iranian opposition group, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), has voiced its fury after Paris police denied permission for a large rally scheduled for next month. The NCRI, which includes the People’s Mujahedin (MEK) group banned in Iran, accused the French government of succumbing to pressure from Tehran to prevent the rally from taking place. The decision by Paris police was based on concerns about potential public disturbances and heightened terrorist risks in the geopolitical context.
Denial Sparks Outrage and Accusations of Government Pressure:
The NCRI had sought permission for a rally in Paris on July 1, expecting tens of thousands of supporters from France and across Europe to attend. However, the Paris police refused approval, citing the potential for disturbances to public order. The NCRI alleged that the decision was the outcome of pressure exerted by the Iranian government on France. They claimed that Tehran’s influence was tied to France’s concerns regarding the fate of four French nationals held in Iran, which activists argue is part of a deliberate strategy of hostage-taking.
Rally Ban Denounced as Attack on Democracy:
The NCRI strongly condemned the ban on the Iranian rally, considering it a “disgraceful act against democracy, freedom of speech, and freedom of assembly.” The opposition group pledged to utilize all legal and political means to challenge the prohibition and file a complaint, highlighting the regime’s alleged pressure on France. The NCRI had intended to leverage the rally’s momentum, stemming from protests against Iran’s clerical leadership following the death of Mahsa Amini, who was arrested for purportedly violating strict dress rules for women.
Security Concerns and Previous Attacks:
Paris police justified their decision by emphasizing the potential security challenges and the complexity of ensuring the safety of sensitive guests. In 2018, authorities successfully thwarted an attack against a major NCRI rally near Paris. Subsequently, an Iranian diplomat was convicted of terror offences by a Belgian court in connection with the foiled attack. However, last month, he was exchanged for a Belgian aid worker held by Tehran. These incidents have further fueled concerns over security risks associated with hosting such events.
Legal and Political Response:
The NCRI pledged to pursue all available legal and political avenues to challenge the ban and express its dissatisfaction with the “unjustifiable prohibition.” They vowed to file a complaint against the decision, emphasizing their commitment to democracy, freedom of speech, and freedom of assembly. The opposition group firmly criticized what they viewed as the religious dictatorship ruling Iran’s pressure on France and its alleged role in stifling democratic rights.
MEK’s Significance and Controversy:
The MEK considered the most prominent Iranian opposition group outside the country, holds a controversial status. While it enjoys support from some high-profile former US and European officials, including former US Vice President Mike Pence, it is also viewed by detractors as a cult-like organization. While not universally embraced within the Iranian diaspora, the MEK seeks to promote its cause and opposition to the current Iranian leadership.
Read More: Najam Sethi Withdraws from Race for PCB Chairman Position
The denial of permission for the Iranian opposition rally in Paris has ignited outrage among the exiled community, highlighting the ongoing struggle for democratic values. The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) has strongly condemned the ban, accusing the French government of succumbing to pressure from Tehran. The decision by Paris police was based on concerns about potential public disturbances and heightened terrorist risks. The NCRI’s determination to challenge the ban underscores their commitment to freedom of speech and assembly, shedding light on the Iranian regime’s alleged efforts to stifle dissent and manipulate international events. The cancellation of the rally represents a setback for the opposition group’s aspirations, emphasizing the continued fight for democratic rights both inside Iran and within its diaspora.
The denial of permission for the Iranian opposition rally in Paris has sparked outrage within the exiled community. Accusations of pressure from Tehran and concerns over security risks have complicated the issue. The NCRI’s determination to challenge the ban reflects their commitment to democratic values while highlighting the alleged role of the Iranian regime in stifling dissent and manipulating international events. The rally’s cancellation represents a setback for the opposition group’s aspirations but underscores the ongoing struggle for freedom of speech and assembly in Iran and its diaspora.
