Concern for those suffering in Iran
ALTHOUGH rooted in my immediate community, my faith as a bishop does not confine my empathy and concern to geographical borders.
Instead, it amplifies my commitment to uphold the dignity of all human beings, particularly those subjected to oppression and injustice.
My thoughts are gravely occupied by the distressing situation of my fellow Christians in Iran, living under relentless persecution, and the broader human rights crisis unfolding in this nation.
Iran, a nation steeped in rich history and culture, is currently grappling with a storm of crises. Among these, the most poignant is the worsening state of religious freedom, particularly for Christians, in the face of an unyielding theocratic rule.
Despite the assurance of religious freedom within the Iranian constitution, Christians face pervasive discrimination and are often treated as second-class citizens, their rights systematically trampled upon.
The alarming state of human rights in Iran adds to the religious intolerance. The country is riddled with corruption, and women face numerous forms of discrimination in all aspects of life. The poverty rate continues to soar, further exacerbating the suffering of the Iranian people. These harsh realities have sparked a wave of protests that have been ongoing for the past seven months.
In Wales, Members of the Senedd have voiced their solidarity with the Iranian protesters, supporting their quest for a democratic republic based on the separation of religion and state. In a recent statement, 38 MSs endorsed the 10-point plan for a future free Iran presented by opposition leader Maryam Rajavi, is a testament to this support. They have also called for blacklisting the Iranian regime’s Revolutionary Guards (IRGC), a move that signifies a strong parliamentary majority.
This endorsement comes at
a critical time. Iran is currently witnessing a massive popular uprising demanding freedom and democracy. More than 750 protesters have lost their lives, and about 30,000 individuals have been arrested. While acknowledging that change must come from the Iranian people and their resistance, the international community has a responsibility to support them in their struggle.
The Members of the Senedd have affirmed their commitment to the Iranian people’s aspiration for a democratic republic where no person has privilege over others due to their religion or familial ties. They have recognised the role of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), which has been a beacon of hope for democratic change in Iran over the past four decades.
The MSs’ statement highlights the “brave uprising” of the Iranian people, a direct result of the explosive state of Iranian society – marked by oppression, poverty, discrimination, and government corruption. They have called upon the international community to stand by the Iranian people in their efforts for change, which includes blacklisting the IRGC and holding regime officials accountable for their crimes against humanity.
This statement reaffirms the international community’s recognition of the Iranian people’s aspirations for a democratic republic based on the separation of religion and government. It is a call for solidarity and a plea for us to recognise the democratic opposition movement in Iran as a viable alternative to the mullahs’ regime. It is a stance based on valuing freedom and justice and is to be applauded. The Rt Revd Dr Barry Morgan
former Archbishop of Wales