Over the past two years, Iran has witnessed significant upheaval, driven initially by the tragic death of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini at the hands of the morality police. This event sparked the Women, Life, Freedom protests, igniting hope and defiance among Iranians both at home and abroad. Even as the regime has responded with increasing violence, the Iranian diaspora continues to rally for change, embodying resilience and determination.
One of the most notable focal points of dissent within Iran is the city of Zahedan, located in southeastern Iran. Recently, the PMOI (People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran) Resistance Units have intensified their activities there, challenging the Iranian regime's authority through public demonstrations and acts of defiance. Amidst aggressive crackdowns, these units have employed various tactics to galvanize dissent, such as distributing leaflets, painting slogans on walls, and displaying banners.
Powerful slogans have emerged from Zahedan, signaling the deep yearning for change among the populace. Phrases like, "The uprising of the people cannot be killed, neither can it be silenced or stopped," reflect the collective resolve of those who seek freedom and justice. These messages challenge the regime's oppressive measures and embody the spirit of resistance. The PMOI's activities are not just about Zahedan; they resonate throughout Iran, fostering solidarity among those who oppose oppression.
The PMOI Resistance Units assert their commitment to achieving regime change, stating, "The new democratic revolution is the roadmap of our people." This statement encapsulates their vision for Iran's future—a democratic republic grounded in justice and equality. Their calls for solidarity extend beyond regional lines, with slogans like, "From Zahedan to Tehran, I will sacrifice my life for Iran," reflecting the desire to unite Iranians against authoritarianism.
Meanwhile, the Iranian regime's response to this surge of dissent has been marked by severe repression. The regime has ramped up executions as a means of intimidation, with over 850 executions reported by the Iran Human Rights organization just this year. Mahmood Amiry-Moghaddam, founder of Iran Human Rights, highlights the regime's desperation, stating, "The spike in executions is indicative of Khamenei’s fear of the people’s uprising." This brutal tactic serves not only to silence opposition but also to reveal the regime's vulnerability, inspiring even greater resistance.
The plight of exiled Iranians reinforces this narrative of hope and resilience. Giorgia Valente's report for The Media Line sheds light on the stories of activists like Jeyran and Babak Moghadam, who fled Iran after facing arrests and torture for their resistance efforts. Jeyran, who served as a professor, utilized her position to inspire students against oppression, whereas Babak risked his life to treat injured protesters.
Reflecting on their harrowing experiences, Jeyran expresses unwavering optimism, saying, "I believe freedom is near." Their story is emblematic of many Iranians living abroad who continue to advocate for change, showing solidarity with those still facing the regime's tyranny.
Despite the distance, the Iranian diaspora remains intricately linked to their homeland. Jeyran's hopes of returning to free Iran resonate deeply within the community. She shares, "I had to decide immediately, pack my life... and bring my husband with me. I hope the people of Iran may kick out the regime, as Syrians recently did." This sentiment is echoed by many exiled Iranians who monitor the situation back home with great urgency.
Since the protests began, the international community has become increasingly aware of the human rights abuses occurring within Iran. Yet Amiry-Moghaddam points out, "The problem is the willingness to act." He emphasizes the need for global recognition of the regime's oppressive tactics and the importance of international support for the movement.
The Women, Life, Freedom protests symbolize not only the struggle against the Iranian regime but also the broader fight against gender apartheid. These protests have galvanized awareness and sympathy globally, widening the support for Iranians demanding their rights.
The challenges facing exiled activists remain significant. Despite having fled the regime's brutality, both Jeyran and Babak continue to advocate for human rights from afar, facing threats against their family members still residing in Iran. Jeyran describes the intricacies of living as refugees, burdened by the realities of statelessness and insecurity even as they engage with the movement.
With increasing execution rates—from 166 people executed just last month alone, the highest since 2007—hope for change can sometimes feel distant. Yet the resilience among both those within and outside the borders of Iran serves as both inspiration and motivation for continued advocacy. Jeyran's remark, "I gave the regime four to five years when Mahsa Amini’s murder ignited the protests... Two years have passed. I believe freedom is near!" reflects the enduring spirit of the Iranian people.
Despite the regime's attempts to stifle dissent through fear and violence, the PMOI Resistance Units and the Iranian diaspora are determined to share their message of resistance and aspiration for democracy. This unwavering resolve suggests hope for the future remains alive, even amid the darkest challenges posed by the Iranian regime.
