Iranian Montreal residents gathered in downtown Montreal on Saturday to show their solidarity with the people of Iran. Recent protests in Iran have been driven by economic challenges and dissatisfaction with the government.
Sara Tamizi, a Montreal resident of Iranian descent, emphasized the desire for freedom, democracy, and the ability to make choices. Concerns escalated when internet and phone services were disrupted, raising fears of increased government crackdowns on protesters.
According to the Human Rights Activists News Agency, the death toll from the protests in Iran has risen to at least 65 people, with over 2,300 individuals detained. Iranian Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei blamed the unrest on rioters and alleged foreign influences.
The blackout in Iran has left many without a means of communication, causing distress among those with family and friends in the country. The uncertainty has impacted daily life and productivity for many Iranian expatriates in Montreal.
Despite warnings from Iranian authorities and U.S. President Donald Trump, protesters in Montreal expressed concerns about foreign intervention in Iran. Bijan Jalali, who left Iran after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, emphasized the importance of Iranians leading their own change process.
While some rally participants expressed skepticism about external assistance, others acknowledged the risks faced by protesters in Iran and the potential need for support. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau condemned the violence against protesters and called for freedom of expression and peaceful assembly in Iran.
The Montreal protesters aspire for a peaceful transition in Iran to foster stability and progress in the country.