The High Representative of the Union for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, denounced the “widespread and disproportionate use of force against non-violent protestors” in a statement of the Twenty-Eight on Sunday 8 December, describing it as “unacceptable”.
“The Iranian security forces’ disproportionate response to recent demonstrations has led to high numbers of deaths and injuries”, the High Representative stressed. He therefore urged the authorities to ensure transparent and credible investigations and to provide due process to all detainees.
“We expect all perpetrators of violence to be held accountable, and in line with statements by senior Iranian officials, all non-violent protestors currently held under arrest should be immediately freed”, Mr Borrell added.
Since November 15, Iranians have been protesting against a sharp increase in the cost of gasoline. Since then, at least 208 people have been killed and more than 7,000 arrested, according to the UN.
Beyond the violence, Europeans denounced the shut down of internet access for more than a week, preventing communication and the free flow of information. According to the Twenty-Eight, this is a “clear violation of the freedom of speech". “Fundamental rights such as freedom of expression and assembly must always be respected”, they stressed. (Original version in French by Camille-Cerise Gessant)