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Free Iran 2023, Europe’s Role and International Community

In a European initiative, members of various parliaments expressed their support for a democratic, secular, non-nuclear republic of Iran and Iranian Resistance NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi's 10-point plan for the future of Iran.
In a European initiative, members of various parliaments expressed their support for a democratic, secular, non-nuclear republic of Iran and Iranian Resistance NCRI President-elect Maryam Rajavi’s 10-point plan for the future of Iran.

A conference was held on June 30 in Paris, focusing on the Iranian People’s Uprising for a Democratic Republic. Distinguished speakers from various European parliaments gathered to discuss this important topic. The event, organized by Friends of a Free Iran in several European nations, provided a platform for panelists who collectively represented millions of European constituents. They shared their perspectives on how to support the Iranian people in their quest for regime change and the realization of their aspirations for freedom and democracy.

The conference attracted the participation of Members of Parliament (MPs) from a wide range of countries including the United Kingdom, Italy, the Republic of Ireland, Romania, Slovakia, San Marino, Lithuania, Portugal, Ukraine, Kosovo, Belgium, Moldova, Malta, Estonia, and Iceland.

THIS PAGE IS BEING UPDATED UPON DEVELOPMENTS OF THE CONFERENCE

Anna Firth MP expressed the UK House of Commons' support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Anna Firth MP expressed the UK House of Commons’ support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Anna Firth MP, Member of the UK House of Commons 

What is happening at the moment inside Iran is evil, and all that it takes for evil to prevail is for good men and women to stay silent. Well, I know I speak for all of you here today in saying we will not stay silent about what is going on in Iran and we are not staying silent in the UK parliament. 

I hope that today we will send a clear message to the Iranian regime that we will not be bowed by their threats. The more they attempt to influence our governments and curtail our right to free speech, and our right to freedom of assembly, the more we will fight back. 

While some governments today attempt to appease the Iranian regime in the UK, we believe the world must hear the truth. Young men and women were massacred, protesters were arrested and raped, and bodies returned to families with such horrific injuries the murders are unrecognizable. The crimes are so horrific that it sickens us to hear them read out loud. The images are so shocking that we try to wipe them from our memory. But that is the regime we are facing, and that is the regime some governments are intent on appeasing. 

And that is why our job today and on all days is so important. We must be the voice of the people of Iran because the people of Iran are the people who will win this war because war is exactly what this is. Not a war by an enemy seeking to take your land, but an enemy that seeks to take away from an entire population, every single individual right and freedom, rights and freedom that we take for granted. 

We are standing on the side of good against evil. We’ve heard recently about the scale of executions carried out by the regime. We’ve seen the regime taking hostages to use as tools in political games. We’ve seen the regime intensifying its efforts to obtain nuclear weapons and other missile capabilities. All signs, I suggest, of a crumbling regime desperately clinging to power via any means possible. 

We know that a huge proportion of Iranian society now lives in poverty whilst under the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps and other senior officials plunder the nation’s wealth. However, in the face of the regime’s brutality, the protest movement continues to flourish. In every area of the country and every walk of life, Iranians bravely protest on a daily basis, whether in the form of strikes, gatherings, or otherwise. 

The movement for democratic change is growing, and the role played by the Iranian opposition is significant. Resistance Units inside Iran work to organize this movement, grow its popularity and show the world that there is a democratic alternative to this regime and that democratic alternative is embodied in Maryam Rajavi’s 10-point plan for a future Iran. The support that the 10-point plan has received over recent months has been incredible. 

The Iranian people want change. They want a Democratic Republic built on the principles of freedom and democracy embodied in the 10-point plan, and they reject any attempt to derail their efforts with fake alternatives. 

This is not a nation and a people that wants to return to another form of dictatorship. It is a nation and a people intent on real change, a system built on freedom and equality. The people of Iran are fighting with energy, with courage, with bravery that is insurmountable. 

Senator Marco Scurria expressed the Italian Senate's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Senator Marco Scurria expressed the Italian Senate’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Senator Marco Scurria, Director of the European Commission of the Italian Senate, Co-president of the Italian Parliamentary Group for a Free Iran 

When you are opposing a regime like the mullahs’ regime, you know that these actions can lead you to prison, they can lead you to sentence death and can lead you to harsh times. 

Today, the regime in Iran is at the heart of international terrorism, which brings about attacks in all of the Middle East, including Israel, but also in European states. And this cannot be accepted and tolerated anymore because we are here to recall the world that the Iranian regime is vulnerable. It can fall if the international community does what it is supposed to do. 

We are also here to recall Iran’s regime that the international community cannot accept the development of a nuclear weapon, because we cannot accept that such a regime can have nuclear weapons to destroy its neighbors and the world. 

So, we’re here to say out loud that there is another Iran, an Iran which built the platform to create a peaceful democratic country, where everybody is equal before the law. 

So that’s why we’re also recalling the role of the young people, of the young women in this Iranian uprising. 

Senator Gerry Horkan expressed the Irish Senate's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Senator Gerry Horkan expressed the Irish Senate’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Senator Gerry Horkan, Member of the Senate from Ireland, deputy chair of the Finance Committee 

The regime has been unable to crush the protest movement in Iran despite months of a deadly crackdown, years of a deadly crackdown, mass arrests, and executions. And what is unfolding in the country today is very clearly a popular push for a revolution. But these ongoing protests make clear that the people of Iran reject both the religious dictatorship but also a return to the past authoritarian rule of the Shah, and they want and need democratic change. 

The courage and determination of the Iranian people to push for democratic change have convinced the EU, the U.S., and indeed the UK to increase pressure on the regime through a series of sanctions. The IRGC has been the main target of these sanctions. But punitive measures alone, it is clear, will not stop Supreme Leader Khamenei from using the IRGC, effectively his private army of repression and terror, to cling to power. 

What will restrict the Supreme Leader’s domestic repression and export of terrorism is to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organization as suggested by Madame Rajavi and the NCRI on many occasions and emphasized by ourselves both previously and today. In fact, the statement, supported by the majority of the Irish Senate, recommends an IRGC designation as one of the steps needed as part of a new firm policy dealing with Iran. 

The reality is that the Iranian people’s push for revolution would not have progressed and gained its momentum without the NCRI and Madame Rajavi’s strong and inspiring leadership over many, many years. Today the answer to overthrow the regime and establish a democratic Republic in Iran is through the Resistance Units at home and through international recognition and endorsement of the democratic alternative presented by Madame Rajavi and articulated today by so many people. 

Bob Blackman MP expressed the UK House of Common's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Bob Blackman MP expressed the UK House of Common’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Bob Blackman MP, Member of the UK House of Commons, Co-President of the International Committee of Parliamentarians for a Democratic Iran (ICPDI) 

I pay tribute to those very brave individuals who are putting their lives on the line every day to protest against the theocratic regime that has now spread to 283 cities and every one of Iran’s 31 provinces. And that’s despite the severe violent crackdown by the regime with the anti-regime slogans.  

The IRGC and other cohorts have done everything they can to suppress the protests, whether it be within Iran or outside. Now, Iran is on the verge of major change, and it’s vital that we press Western governments, all governments to take action. Because the fact is that one government acting alone will not change the regime in Iran. So, their policy and our policies must change. 

The West’s softline approach has allowed the regime to oppress the Iranian people, export terrorism, and destabilize the Middle East with impunity, while also incentivizing its nuclear escalation to the extent that Iran is now on the brink of becoming a nuclear state. 

Just imagine the threat to the West, to the region, and to everyone around the world if there’s a nuclear Iran. If European governments continue this approach, they will stand against the people of Iran in favor of the regime. This would place all of us on the wrong side of history and allow the regime to continue its unacceptable and illegal behavior with complete impunity. 

Now, we need a firm policy, that keeps and strengthens the shift of power in favor of the people of Iran rather than the mullahs and, as the majority of parliaments and many parliamentarians from European countries have highlighted in their statements last month, the basis of the West’s firm policy on Iran should be: 

Number one, proscribe the IRGC in its entirety and seize its assets so they can be used for the benefit of the Iranian people. 

Two, hold the regime to account by referring its appalling human rights dossier to the United Nations Security Council for prosecution. 

Recognize and endorse the NCRI with Mrs. Mariam Rajavi’s 10-point democratic platform as the viable democratic alternative to the current regime. 

Emanuele Pozzolo expressed the Italian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Emanuele Pozzolo expressed the Italian Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Emanuele Pozzolo, Foreign Affairs Committee of the Italian Parliament 

We love freedom in the West but it is not just for us. It is for mankind around the world. We have to stand up and raise our voices in practice. These people need our protection in Europe. We can’t just show sympathy. We must act against those who are ruling in this country. And we must help those who are fighting for freedom in Iran. This is the MEK.  

Ashraf is a fundamental hub and important platform for freedom to weaken the regime. We should not be shy and do more. Our conscience should be awakened.  

We as politicians need to act and awaken the conscience of the people around us. Often they tell us to only care about our own country. But we must also care about Iran. Today, Iran is the capital of international terrorism. This means we must tackle this issue. 

And we need to support the Iranian patriots of the MEK. They are an example for all of us in the West. They are sacrificing their lives to realize the dream they have for their homeland. They deserve not only our support but also our standing beside them. 

Senator Raffaele Speranzon expressed the Italian Senate's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Senator Raffaele Speranzon expressed the Italian Senate’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Senator Raffaele Speranzon, Member of Senate from Italy, Vice President of Fratelli d’Italia 

This country is governed by a regime that has turned Iran into a country of violence against civilians, dissidents, and neighboring countries. Today, Iran is unfortunately the cradle of terrorism. 120,000 executions have taken place since the revolution. It is horrifying and many people are in prison without proper trial. 

The regime tries to give a sacred meaning to its crimes, but it is only trying to hold on to power. 

It is important for us to go out of this room and be the voice of Iran’s people outside here. We are standing for all of humanity and its values. The uprisings show that the alternative to the regime, Iran’s people, are hungry for change. The regime is not unstoppable and like all authoritarian regimes, it will fall. 

It is for the Iranian people to choose who should govern them and how. But unfortunately, the regime has made it impossible for the people to choose. The people are not free to determine their present and future. Any request for change is oppressed. This is why we need to support the democratic opposition to the regime. This is Maryam Rajavi’s plan. We need not only ideas but also people who bring these ideas and have the courage to build consensus. This is a democratic opposition. 

Democracy and freedom are the only alternatives to the regime that we have today. Today, here in this room, we are standing with you. This shows how strong democratic values are. 

Sooner or later, freedom will be in every house in Iran. 

Anna Záborská expressed the Slovakian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Anna Záborská expressed the Slovakian Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Anna Záborská, Member of the National Council of Slovakia

 I’ve met with men and women of the Iranian Resistance every day. They work tirelessly. Many resolutions talk about equality and rights, but Iranian authorities do not respect it. 

Many Iranian women spent years in prisons and many died there. I don’t think it is a coincidence that women play a leading role in the Iranian opposition. 

I met with Mrs. Rajavi during her visits to the European Parliament. She consistently calls for equality and the rights of women.  

What is sad is that European states do not insist on basic human rights in their interactions with Iran. 

The people of Iran expect the world to recognize their right to regime change and to be on their side and not on the side of the regime. They want change to a democratic, secular, and pluralistic Iran based on the ten-point plan of Mrs. Rajavi.

Giuseppe Maria Morganti expressed the Sammarinese Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Giuseppe Maria Morganti expressed the Sammarinese Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Giuseppe Maria Morganti, Member of Parliament from San Marino, Former Minister of Education 

We’re happy that our parliament unitedly condemned the regime’s brutality and stood with protesters in Iran. There is a growing consensus to condemn this regime. We are calling on our government to distance itself from this regime. 

This regime is a terrorism threat. We must show solidarity with the Iranian people but also stop all exchanges with the regime. We must legally prosecute those who are committing crimes. We are in favor of a democratic choice in Iran on the 10-point plan of Maryam Rajavi, which calls for free elections, gender equality, and the abandonment of nuclear weapons. 

We regret what is happening at the international level. There are a few openings with the regime, which is disappointing.  

But we will win the battle for democracy and human rights. We need solidarity so those who are fighting for freedom know they can count on others. 

Marius Matijošaitis expressed the Lithuanian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Marius Matijošaitis expressed the Lithuanian Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023

Marius Matijošaitis, Member of Parliament from Lithuania (Foreign Affairs Committee) 

 We stand with the Iranian people and Iran’s revolution. It was heartbreaking to see Iran’s regime sending drones to kill civilians in Ukraine. I salute the remarkable efforts of the Resistance Units who have emerged as a symbol of hope with their activities inside Iran. 

While over 750 have been killed since last September and over 30,000 have been arrested, it has not stopped the Iranian people in their protests. In the face of such adversities, Resistance Units continue to grow across Iran. The uprising expands defying all expectations. I salute these heroes for continuing their activities.  

The people of Iran will not stop no matter the cost. The entire nation has rallied around the message of organized resistance.  

The NCRI inspires us. Let’s join them in their quest for freedom in Iran.

Luis Leite Ramos expressed the Portugues Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Luis Leite Ramos expressed the Portugues Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Luis Leite Ramos, Vice President EPP Political group in PACE from Portugal until 2022 

We are fascinated by the movement fighting for democracy and justice. This movement has been fighting for forty years in this struggle. The resistance has recorded 120,000 victims in this struggle.  

We are fighting for all women. This will trigger a cultural revolution in Iran and in the Middle East. Maryam Rajavi leads this movement. She has resisted many hardships and these hardships would have undermined her. She is full of goodwill. She benefits from the support of many advocates of freedom in Iran. She overcomes these hardships with resolve. We are here to support her 10-Point Plan to put an end to the impunity of this dictatorship. 

Pavel Popescu expressed the Romanian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Pavel Popescu expressed the Romanian Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Pavel Popescu, Member of the Assembly of Deputies of Romania 

 I hate hypocrisy in politics, especially when it comes to human rights. Human rights in Iran are a topic that has become a part of this political hypocrisy. We say a lot that Iran is sending drones to kill people in Ukraine. 

I know one thing; if we don’t start doing something about Iran and treat it seriously and put human rights in the middle of the debate, we will continue this hypocrisy. I’m here to say we need to get things done.  

The United States is the best friend of my country. These days, I want as a Western politician a little more leadership and a hands-on approach toward Iran’s regime.

Claudia Andre expressed the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Claudia Andre expressed the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Claudia Andre, Deputy of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic 

 I visited Ashraf 3 last year. I was moved by the images and documents of the regime’s crimes and by the spirit of the women of the MEK. Women are the driving force of change in Iran. I would like to recognize the role of women in the Iranian Resistance.  

I lend my support to Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-point Plan. 

Anthea McIntyre expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Anthea McIntyre expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Anthea Elizabeth Joy McIntyre, Former Head of UK Delegation at PACE, Deputy Chair of the Conservative Party, UK 

We often criticized the way the European Union at the time pursued a policy of appeasement with Iran and with the mullah’s regime. It is very important that Europe and the international community continue to support demands for democracy, freedom, and equality in Iran.  

It is wonderful that women and the younger generation of girls are at the forefront of protests in Iran. It shouldn’t surprise us that they are, because it is women who have been leading the organized Iranian opposition, the PMOI/MEK, and the NCRI, for the last 44 years. 

The women of Iran are challenging the regime every day with organized resistance and civil disobedience, making great personal sacrifices. Such brave women and such a contrast to the misogynist rulers of Iran. 

The Iranian regime clearly sees women and girls as a serious threat to their grip on power, so they reduce them to second-class citizens in both law and practice. The Iranian Resistance movement, the NCRI, on the contrary, see women and girls as the driving force for change and the guarantors of a free, democratic, and secular Republic. 

Mrs. Rajavi and her 10-point democratic platform will transform Iran and the Middle East if and when it is implemented because it gives women the opportunity to shape the future of their country. 

It is really heartening to hear parliamentarians from many European countries endorsing this movement in their statements. 

As long as the current regime in Iran is in power, Iran will stand for human rights abuse, torture, mass executions, and terrorism. This in no way represents the people of Iran or their aspirations. The Iranian people’s desire is to overthrow the regime and establish a secular and democratic Republic. This is shown by their anti-regime protests. So, the international community must realize that and stand with the Iranian people and Mrs. Rajavi to make this day come sooner rather than later. 

The EU and the UK have a responsibility and a moral duty to hold the Iranian regime to account and bring the regime’s leaders to justice. They can do it in a number of ways by referring the regime to the UN Security Council, by recognizing Mariam Rajavi and her 10-Point platform as an obvious democratic replacement to the regime by assisting Iranians and the Iranian resistance who are seeking justice under the universal jurisdiction in Europe. 

And most importantly, they can proscribe the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) and designate it as a terrorist organization. 

Andriy Osadchuk expressed the Ukrainian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gathering; June 30, 2023
Andriy Osadchuk expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Andriy Osadchuk, Member of Parliament from Ukraine 

In May, Russia used more than 300 kamikaze drones against Ukraine. They were all made in Iran. So far several thousand Iranian drones have been sent to Ukraine. For us, the Iranian regime is not just one of several totalitarian regimes. It is the enemy of Ukraine.  

We don’t just want to kick Russia out of Ukraine. We want to establish a model of law that will not allow these atrocities to happen again. This includes bringing to justice everyone who was involved and helped in these crimes.  

We will never forgive or forget. And we will do our best to hold them responsible. 

What is happening in Ukraine is the result of many mistakes made by the free world in the last decades. In the past decades, the free world has developed many rules that don’t allow doing business with drug dealers, bribes, etc. But during all these years, it was allowed to do business with totalitarian regimes. 

The conclusion is simple. It is impossible to cooperate with evil. If you do that, you will make the evil stronger, like it is happening in Ukraine. 

When you develop, promote foreign policies, be tough, be brave, and have zero tolerance toward dictatorships, for one reason. If we want to give our kids a world of freedom and security, no compromise is acceptable. 

Steve McCabe MP expressed the UK House of Common's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Steve McCabe MP expressed the UK House of Common’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Steve McCabe MP, Member of the UK House of Commons, Co-President of the British Committee for Iran Freedom, former parliament whip 

We all know this regime is crumbling and desperate. But it doesn’t mean it will give up. It is still turning out material day in and day out to brainwash people. It has created hundreds of documentaries and TV shows to brainwash the people and the international community. It creates propaganda to malign the PMOI and the opposition.

We are here because we are not fooled by the mullahs. We will continue to support the Iranian people until we will see the day that Iran will be free. 

Giangiacomo Calovini expressed the Italian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Giangiacomo Calovini expressed the Italian Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Giangiacomo Calovini, Member of the Italian Parliament Foreign Affairs Committee 

 We can no longer accept what is happening in Iran. Iran is a country where human rights are not respected. We should make it possible for Iran to return to what it used to be. We are seeing acts of violence by the regime and the people fighting against this violence. 

The country has been shaken by strong protests and winds of change. We must absolutely support these protests. Journalists and bloggers have been arrested arbitrarily by the regime. The regime uses the media to spread false propaganda against the opposition. 

We need to do our best to make sure the voice of the Iranian people is heard across the world. 

Adrian Belîi expressed the Moldavian Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Adrian Belîi expressed the Moldavian Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Adrian Belîi, Member of Parliament from Moldova   

Today, human civilization has reached such a level that it can give up aggressive acts against others. We are all human beings with fundamental rights. We have the same desire for a secure and stable future.  

Some world leaders are using fear, torture, terrorism, corruption, and genocide against their own people. We know what the Russians are doing in Ukraine with the help of others, including the Iranian government. The murder of Mahsa Amini last year led to protests against the regime. 

The uprising reflects the deep dissatisfaction in the whole society against the corrupt criminal regime. 80 percent of Iranians live in poverty because of the regime. Inflation is at 50 percent. Iran is facing a brain drain as students leave the country for better opportunities. 

The regime considers the Iranian people as the enemy. The people ask for democratic change. We should support this legitimate request. Mrs. Rajavi’s Ten-point plan supports this future for freedom and democracy in Iran. 

Ivan Bartolo expressed the Maltese Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Ivan Bartolo expressed the Maltese Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Ivan Bartolo, Member of Parliament from Malta 

 The Resistance has never deviated from its goal of establishing freedom and democracy in Iran. They are ready to pay the price and the NCRI’s program provides elections within six months of the overthrow of the regime to establish a new state. The MEK has a vast network of Resistance Units inside Iran and the NCRI has the capacity to create a united front of opposition with a variety of views. 

We are certainly on the right track with international support for the goals of the NCRI, which now has the support of over 3,600 parliamentarians. 

Raising awareness is our duty, urging our governments to change their policy toward the regime. The only real prison is fear, and the only real freedom is freedom from fear. 

Mark Williams expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Mark Williams expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Mark Williams, former British MP

The world is not a safe place when the regime is willing to do anything it can to hold on to power. We must have in our minds the brave sacrifices since September and in the past 43 years. Our presence illustrates our determination to shine a light on one of the most reprehensible regimes. We rally behind the NCRI. The revolution in Iran is inevitable. The regime must understand that the river of resistance will continue to flow until it reaches its destination. History has taught us that appeasement will never stop dictators. The same applies to the dictators in Iran. The governments of Europe must not repeat the mistakes of the past. 

They must proscribe the IRGC, the body of terrorism. The IRGC are the new SAVAK. In 1979 a deplorable regime was replaced by something much worse.  

We must insist on the visitation of human rights experts to the regime’s prisons. We must urge the international criminal court to hold the regime’s leaders to account for their crimes. Their crimes will never be forgotten. 

The cause of freedom and democracy is unstoppable. The cause of justice will not be compromised. The 10-Point Plan offers a fair deal. 

Elisabetta Zamparutti expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Elisabetta Zamparutti expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Elisabetta Zamparutti, former Member of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy 

We counted 386 executions in Iran by Ebrahim Raisi. He was one of the members of the ‘Death Commission’ who massacred more than 30,000 political prisoners in a short time span. Death is the proposition of this regime for its own people and the rest of the world. 

We in the West consider Iran as a threat to international security because of nuclear weapons. But it is a threat to the world because of its behavior toward its own people. 

Iran is not an element of stability for the Middle East region—it is an element of instability. We should know our responsibilities in the West in the face of this regime. What have we or haven’t we done in this country? We have the responsibility to avoid appeasement.  

We as individuals and communities must create space for the rule of law. The policy of appeasement toward Iran has always one demand: the head of the PMOI. Why do they have such fear of MEK? Because they represent fundamental change. This shows how much this organization is considered the number one enemy of this regime. 

This organization has a program, the 10-Point Plan. And the Resistance has been fighting for 44 years. This organization daily risks their life for freedom. We have forgotten this in the West. Are we willing to give up our lives for freedom? So, we need to clearly support them. 

Iran’s Resistance wants to ensure the well-being of the Iranian people.

Marica Montemaggi expressed the Sammarinese Parliament's support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Marica Montemaggi expressed the Sammarinese Parliament’s support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Marica Montemaggi, Member of Parliament from San Marino 

The people have shown their strength to change things. Sacrifices have been huge. Women and men are risking their lives for freedom. They want to change the dictatorship. We have the IRGC that is killing people to suppress the revolt. We are seeing executions of people. If the government was strong, it would not resort to such things. The history of my country shows how freedom and the rule of law are fundamental. 

We will be able to give strength and hope to the millions of Iranians who are looking forward to freedom. We want the streets of Iran to celebrate the fall of the regime. But one thing is clear, there should be an alternative that comes from unity and democracy and gives the possibility for a transition. We need to nurture their strength, so this change becomes reality. This is what Maryam Rajavi’s 10-Point Plan represents: all the forces of democracy. 

We are here today and every day to stand with the people who are sacrificing their lives to achieve a free and democratic Iran.

Carlo Riva Vercellott expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Carlo Riva Vercellott expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Carlo Riva Vercellott , Italian MP from Torino Province

We support the women of Iran, who are fighting for their future. The regime of Iran kills and rapes women so that they have no room and space in society. I think Iran has huge potential. But the many violations of human rights strongly limit these potentials. They limit the cultural and economic prosperity of this country.  

Iran’s women are an endless source of courage and resilience. They inspire many people in their journey. They are not alone today. The international community is standing alongside them. We feel the urge and duty to support them. We have passed a law and are carrying out different initiatives to support this. We say to all these young people, be strong, we are with you for the 10-Point Plan. 

Jim Higgins expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Jim Higgins expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Jim Higgins, former Vice President of EEP at the European Parliament 

The consequences of the victory for Ukraine will be manifold, first of all, democracy and freedom; freedom from subjugation. But also, from the point of view of driving an arrow right into the heart of the Iranian regime, who are supplying the kamikaze drones that daily attack achieves irrespective of the manifest attempts to thwart them and take them out. Winning that war is going to be a major blow to the Iranian regime. 

Having Mrs. Maryam Rajavi’s 10-point plan is a blueprint that is going to deliver Iran from the hands and the tyranny of the Mullahs and give Iran back to the people. From the point of view of appeasement, and we’ve heard a lot about appeasement, I don’t understand appeasement. I don’t understand why we have embassies. They should be the same as this happened with Russia. They should be seen as pariahs and they should be isolated on the world stage.

Juku-Kalle Raid expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Juku-Kalle Raid expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Juku-Kalle Raid, Member of the Foreign Affairs Committee of the Parliament of Estonia 

Maryam Rajavi is more capable of doing anything than any other person. We silently hope that the dictatorship will die soon. The killing of people will end soon. Democracy will have to win. And it will win soon. Censorship will end soon.  

More than 40 years have passed since the beginning of this regime. Still, we are hoping for this to end soon. People are in the streets again and again. People are crying out for freedom again. We know that it will continue as long as the dictatorship lasts. 

We must recognize that these dictatorships are the branches of the same tree. Everyone knows Putin is a war criminal. But what about Tehran’s streets and the uprisings there? We are here to not be silent. We must not forget that what is important is what we do and say after we go back to our countries.

Antonio Tasso expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Antonio Tasso expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Antonio Tasso, former Member of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy 

We must recall the atrocities perpetrated in Iran. The regime commits atrocities against any sort of dissent and protest. Western democracies don’t always have the right attitude toward those who suffer. They appease these regimes for what they are doing, for their attitude. But they don’t condemn them in an efficient way. They are now negotiating with the theocratic regime to reduce its nuclear proliferation and they are increasing their demands. The regime demands that the MEK be delegitimized. Inside Iran, the situation is growing worse. There is poverty and inflation. The regime is increasing repression. This will lead to more unrest by the people of Iran.  

The West must make the right choice. Mrs. Rajavi represents the only hope for the future of Iran with the 10-Point Plan.   

Sen. Roberto Rampi expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Sen. Roberto Rampi expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Senator Roberto Rampi, former member of the Italian Senate 

Iran has the most executions. It kills minors. It makes a show of its executions. But Iran is also the starting point of many instability elements. It finances terrorist groups in the Middle East and in Europe. The mullahs misrepresent Iran.  

This is a turning point. What happened in Iran in the past months created the conditions for the regime to crumble. It should not receive help from outside. There should be no appeasement for this regime. What has been happening in the last week is worrying. We need to build a democratic alternative for Iran.  

Maryam Rajavi’s platform wants to give people the power of democracy and pluralism. We are here to say that the 10-Point Plan and what has been created by this organization is a real chance to create a real future for Iran. This is what is needed not only in Iran but also in the world. 

Iran must have a democracy. But Iranians will choose what they want. 

Naike Gruppioni expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Naike Gruppioni expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Naike Gruppioni, Member of the Chamber of Deputies of Italy 

After 40 years, the dream of freedom has to turn into reality. This summit is a narrative of awakening by very courageous people. This is the most courageous revolution of the Middle East. The people of Iran are very courageous and they do not back down in face of the regime’s repression. After the death of Mahsa Amini, thousands of people went into the streets. But this time it was much more inclusive.  

Today, the cry of pain is heard by everyone. The women of Iran have become a reflection of the regime’s fragility. We see the difference between the ideology of the regime and the aspirations of the people. 

We should all know that the world should not forget the contribution that free Iran can make to the world. 

Bruno Coimbra expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Bruno Coimbra expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Bruno Coimbra, Deputy of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic 

We came here to express our support for the Iranian Resistance. Human rights in Iran is catastrophic. The statistics of executions reveal the gravity of the situation. Iranian people must not stand alone. We must stand on their side, against violence, against oppression, and for democracy. Enough with the silence toward the regime. We support the 10-Point Plan of Mrs. Maryam Rajavi. I support the NCRI as the democratic alternative. 

Hugo Martins de Carvalho expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Hugo Martins de Carvalho expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Hugo Martins de Carvalho, Deputy of the Assembly of the Portuguese Republic 

The ongoing violence in Iran has shocked us all. Young people are subjected to torture and murder. It’s not acceptable to get shot for dreaming or for wanting change. The people of Iran will continue to fight. What I can offer is a commitment to bring more members of the parliament, to take action at home, and to spread the message. 

Bryndis Haroldsdottir expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Bryndis Haroldsdottir expressed her support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Bryndis Haroldsdottir, Member of Parliament from Iceland, chair of the General Military and Education Committee, Chair of the Nordic Council 

I’m honored to support the Free Iran movement and the Iranian women who are fighting for the future of their country. The dedication and sacrifices of Iranian women have come at an immense cost. Yet, they have survived and continue to show their resolve to the world. The people of Iran are still being subjected to brutal violence by the government. The fundamental freedoms of individuals are needed to fuel human creativity and innovation. Gender equality will only be reached when stereotypes are overcome. 

Without gender equality, there will be no sustainable development, no economy, and no democracy. 

Sir Alan Meale expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023
Sir Alan Meale expressed his support for a free and democratic Iran on the opening day of the Free Iran 2023 gatherings; June 30, 2023

Sir Alan Meale, Honorary Member of the UK Parliament from Pace

We all know that this regime is failing and its legs are not there to last for very much longer. But the pieces that have been lost in the heartache that’s been brought will take generations to put right and what I’m saying is that we should finalize this and finish this and get on with the job of that which will take generations more. 

You see parliaments around the world align enough parliamentarians around the world to support a free Iran. Parliamentarians are there, and organizations are there, but governments are hesitant for one reason or another about whether they should be doing it. 

But the one thing that I have examined over the last few years have been involved in this, that the soundest plan of all is being drafted by Madam Rajavi. It’s absolutely excellent and to the point.