In a speech delivered at the Free Iran 2024 World Summit on June 29, former Irish Prime Minister Enda Kenny called for a concerted global effort to address the oppressive regime in Iran.

Speaking to a packed audience, Kenny emphasized the need for relentless international pressure and solidarity with the Iranian people in their fight for freedom and democracy.

Kenny began by acknowledging the multitude of global crises vying for attention but argued that the situation in Iran is too significant to overlook. “The planet’s in trouble. Humanity itself is in danger,” he said, listing various international conflicts and humanitarian crises. Despite these challenges, he asserted, “Iran is too big to ignore, too strategic to neglect, and too unpredictable to forget.”

Drawing from Ireland’s history of struggle and eventual peace, Kenny underscored the importance of resilience and courage. “The people of Iran are welcoming, peace-loving people, and yet what’s seen on Western television is never anything other than crowds of people supporting a theocratic dictator,” he noted. Kenny praised the bravery of Iranian women and the broader population who continue to stand up against oppressive measures, often at great personal risk.

Kenny highlighted the regime’s ability to withstand wars, sanctions, and uprisings, but expressed confidence in its eventual downfall. “This regime has been around for over 40 years, and it’s withstood wars, sanctions, and uprisings. But the end will come, and when it does, it will be swift and certain,” he predicted.

Addressing the international community, Kenny called for continuous pressure on Iranian embassies and representatives to spotlight incidents of repression and human rights abuses. “Every day there should be contact with Iranian ambassadors where they are located around the world, from governments or parliamentarians, about another incident in Tehran or wherever,” he urged.

He was clear that sanctions alone are insufficient due to various circumventions. “Sanctions haven’t worked because of crypto, bitcoin, shadow fleets, barter, shady deals, and endemic corruption,” he explained. Instead, Kenny called for a clear vision and decisive actions, emphasizing the critical role of the Iranian diaspora and international bodies like the United Nations and the European Parliament.

Kenny’s speech resonated deeply with the attendees, who included notable figures in the Iranian resistance movement. Maryam Rajavi, a key leader in the movement, was among those praised for her relentless efforts. “We are very privileged to be here today with you, Maryam, for what you’re doing in respect of Iran and the people of Iran,” Kenny stated.

He concluded by urging the Iranian people to maintain their courage and resilience. “The message to the Iranian people is to keep doing as you’re doing. But the message to the Iranian diaspora worldwide is to say you need to implement and assist with authority from outside,” he said. Kenny’s call to action was clear: the fight for freedom in Iran must be unyielding and supported by the global community. As the summit concluded, attendees left with renewed purpose and determination, inspired by Kenny’s words and the shared commitment to 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