The Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever (Flemish nationalist) has expressed his support for the people of Iran as anti-government protests spread across the country. In a message posted on the social media platform X, Mr De Wever writes that “courageous Iranians are standing up for freedom after years of repression and economic hardship” adding that “they deserve our full support”.
The protest in Iran stemmed from frustration with the country’s economic malaise and hyperinflation. However, the scope of the protest has broadened to include opposition to political oppression by Iran’s theocratic regime. Iran’s security services using lethal force against the protesters.
Writing in both English and Farsi, Mr De Wever says that "Silencing them through violence is unacceptable”.
The Belgian Prime Minister message echoes that of other world leaders in support of the Iranian people. On Thursday the speaker of the European Parliament Roberta Metsola posted a video on X in which she said “The world is once again witnessing the brave people of Iran stand up. Europe stands by their side.”
There are currently around 250 Belgians in Iran. The Belgian Foreign Ministry has warned them to avoid gatherings of any nature and to leave the country immediately. Earlier this week, a demonstration was held in support of the protester outside the Iranian embassy in Brussels.