1.200 people demonstrate in Brussels in support of Iran protests

Some 1.200 people took to the streets of Brussels on Saturday afternoon to show their support for the protests that have been taking place in Iran for weeks now. In the Asian country, much of the population is protesting against the strict theocratic regime, following the death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini.

The protest movement in Iran began a month ago, on 16 September, after Iranian-Kurdish Mahsa Amini died in hospital. She was arrested three days earlier for failing to comply with strict dress codes in the Islamic Republic. Clashes with Iranian security forces repeatedly occurred during the protests, resulting in dozens of deaths among the protesters. Protests are still taking place in Iran today.

"It is clear that the Iranian people are fed up with this religious, theocratic, dicatorial regime. But unfortunately, the regime still responds with violence and bloodshed."

"We are taking to the streets of Brussels today to show the people of Iran that they are not alone, that we are on their side", said Fariba Amarkhizi, a member of one of the organising associations. "It is clear that the Iranian people are fed up with this religious, theocratic, dicatorial regime. But unfortunately, the regime still responds with violence and bloodshed."

"For us Iranians outside Iran, this is a very difficult period", said another participant. "We are, with all our hearts, with the people of Iran and the struggle for freedom they are waging. We thank everyone who is here today to support us and them."

The demonstration left at Troon Square and has since reached its final destination at Schuman Square. The march was headed by a large group of women, but the demonstration has brought people of all ages to the streets. Protesters shouted slogans against the Iranian regime, as well as slogans such as "My body, my choice" and "Woman, life, liberty."

(BRV)

© BELGA PHOTO NICOLAS MAETERLINCK