EPP Group statement on the current developments in Iran

We unequivocally condemn the brutal repression of the legitimate demonstrations and express our full solidarity with the Iranian people in their democratic aspirations. We call for the immediate release of all imprisoned demonstrators and political prisoners, an immediate end to the violence and the restoration of full internet access. We express our profoundest condolences to all those families whose loved ones have been brutally killed over the past days and weeks. Whilst calling for a free, democratic and open Iran, we commend the courage and resolve of all those brave Iranians who have taken to the streets at enormous personal risk.

We also reiterate our condemnation of the systematic targeting of human rights activists, minorities and women and deplore the appallingly high number of executions as a symbol of the regime's utter disregard for human life and dignity.

The vicious crackdown by the regime is yet another sign of its deeply illegitimate and autocratic nature. By sowing chaos and destruction across the region and beyond, it continues to represent the largest threat to regional security and stability and an obstacle for peace. 

We fully support and welcome the decision by the President of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola to ban all diplomatic staff and representatives of the Iranian regime from all European Parliament premises. We also reiterate our call on the Council to designate the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps as a terrorist organisation and demand the immediate adoption of further sanctions against the regime. At the same time, we regret the deafening silence of some political groups and their failure to stand up for the democratic aspirations and calls for freedom of the Iranian people.