On Tuesday 2 January, EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Federica Mogherini appealed on behalf of the EU for all parties in Iran to show restraint, despite anti-government and pro-government demonstrations continuing in the country.
In a statement by the EU, Mogherini stated: “we expect all concerned to refrain from violence, and the right of expression to be guaranteed”. She also said that the EU was closely following the ongoing demonstrations and “the increase of violence and the unacceptable loss of human lives”. At least 21 people have been killed since the beginning of the demonstrations and several hundred people have been arrested.
The high representative stated that “human rights have always been a core issue in our relationship with Iran. Peaceful demonstration and freedom of expression are fundamental rights that apply to every country, and Iran is no exception”.
Mogherini said that over the past few days the EU had been in contact with the Iranian authorities and that it was continuing to monitor the development of the situation.
Over the past few days, thousands of Iranians have demonstrated against the cost of living, unemployment, corruption and the lack of freedom, whilst thousands of others have taken to the streets to support the regime. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)