On July 1, 2023, Stephen Harper, the former Prime Minister of Canada, delivered a potent address at the Free Iran World Summit, held at the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) headquarters in Auvers-sur-Oise, France.
His words resonated across the globe, reaching millions of Iranians through live broadcasts, and invigorating demonstrators in the heart of Paris.
In his speech, Harper fervently underscored the undying wish of Iranians for a democratic nation. He praised their courage and determination, referencing recent demonstrations where, “Despite the brutality of the regime, the deaths of hundreds, and the imprisonment of thousands, the people of Iran have yet again taken to the streets to demand an end to the theocratic dictatorship.”
Highlighting the role of women in the struggle for change, Harper acknowledged their protests were not simply against the enforced hijab, but a manifestation of a larger resistance movement. He stated, “the women of Iran have long understood that their rights and their equality and even their personhood can only be realized with the overthrow of the regime and its primitive ideology.”
Former #Canadian PM @stephenharper: #IranProtests are much more than a feminist movement against the hijab. They are rooted in over 40 years of organized Resistance with women like @Maryam_Rajavi playing a leading role.#OurChoiceMaryamRajavihttps://t.co/0ntipuMGxq
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) July 1, 2023
Harper also dispelled notions of an immovable regime. He challenged Western policy experts who overestimate the strength of autocratic governments, and drew parallels to historical miscalculations with the Shah’s regime in the 1970s. He reiterated that the current Iranian regime is “more brutal, more dysfunctional, and deeply rotten from within.”
The former Prime Minister also posited a viable alternative to the current regime, asserting, “Never believe the propaganda from the regime, again, far too often repeated in our Western nations, that the only alternative to the regime is chaos.” He condemned the regime’s pursuit of nuclear weapons and funding of terrorism, advocating for stronger sanctions and condemnation of human rights violations.
Furthermore, Harper implored the international community to support the organized Iranian Resistance, is time to end the decades of silence and inaction that has helped fuel a culture of violence and impunity among the mullahs and their henchmen.”
In conclusion, Harper commended the vision of the NCRI for a “free, secular, and democratic state,” adding that “as you continue your fight for that alternative vision, please know that millions around the world stand with you.” His rallying speech at the Free Iran World Summit demonstrates the international support for a free and democratic Iran.
MEK Iran (follow us on Twitter and Facebook), Maryam Rajavi’s on her site, Twitter & Facebook, NCRI (Twitter & Facebook), and People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran – MEK IRAN – YouTu