Starmer speaks out over killing of Iran protestors amid crackdown on demonstrations
Sir Keir Starmer condemned the killing of protesters in Iran and called on Tehran to “exert restraint” amid a crackdown on anti-regime demonstrations.
Weeks of unrest, initially fueled by the country’s struggling economy, led to the deaths of at least 48 protesters and the detention of 2,300 people.
In response, Iranian authorities also cut off internet access and international telephone communications.
In a joint statement with the leaders of France and Germany, the prime minister said he was “deeply concerned by reports of violence by Iranian security forces” and “strongly” condemned the killing of protesters.
The leaders added: “Iranian authorities have a responsibility to protect their people and must allow freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of retaliation.
“We call on Iranian authorities to act with restraint, refrain from violence, and protect the fundamental rights of Iranian citizens.”
Earlier, Conservative Party leader Kemi Badenoch said the Iranian regime was “doing what authoritarian governments always do when they are afraid” and was “trying to silence the truth” by blocking internet access.
He said: “A regime that oppresses its own people, violates rights and strips away fundamental freedoms is the same regime that exports terrorism, finances extremism and threatens stability far beyond its borders. Even here in the UK, Iran is trying to kill its political rivals.”
“We stand with the Iranian people who want a secular, democratic future for Iran.”
Protests in Iran began on December 28 and have become the most significant challenge to the regime in several years.
The action also included slogans supporting Iran’s pre-revolutionary leader, the Shah; The Shah’s son, Reza Pahlavi, called for more protests.
The demonstrations also renewed the conflict between Iran and the United States; President Donald Trump warned Tehran would “go to hell” if authorities killed protesters.
