Sep. 25 (EUROPA PRESS) –
The High Representative for Foreign Policy of the EU, Josep Borrell, has summoned the Iranian authorities this Sunday to respect the right to demonstrate, free expression and freedom of information after the harsh repression of the protests over the death of Mahsa Amini, arrested in Tehran for not wearing her veil correctly.
“The widespread and disproportionate use of force against non-violent protesters is unjustifiable and unacceptable. The people of Iran and those of any other place have the right to demonstrate peacefully. That right must be guaranteed in all circumstances”, Borrell pointed out in an official statement.
The EU thus summons Tehran to respect the principles contained in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Iran is a signatory. “We hope that Iran will immediately cease the violent repression of the protests and guarantee access to the Internet and the free flow of information,” Borrell said.
It also asks Iran “to clarify the number of deaths and detainees, release non-violent protesters and respect due process for all those arrested.” In particular, it calls for “a proper investigation into the death of Mahsa Amini” and that those responsible for his death be held accountable. “We take note of the words of the president of Iran in this regard,” he says.
In addition, the EU is considering “all options” in view of the next Foreign Affairs Council, the forum that brings together the Union’s foreign ministers, in response to the actions of the Iranian security forces and Amini’s own death.
At least 35 people have died in the wave of protests unleashed by the death of Amini after being arrested by agents of the Morale Police in Tehran, according to the balance published on Friday by the state broadcaster IRIB. This Sunday the official news agency reported the death of a fifth member of the Basij paramilitary militia.
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