European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen has called for the immediate release of imprisoned Iranian protesters as demonstrations against the government continue across Tehran and other cities in Iran.
“We unequivocally condemn the violent repression of these legitimate demonstrations,” von der Leyen said in a post on X. She also demanded the restoration of internet access, which has been blocked since Thursday.
Protests Across Iran
The demonstrations, which began in December 2025 over economic hardship, quickly escalated into widespread opposition to the clerical leadership. Hospitals are reportedly overwhelmed, and the Iranian military has urged citizens to counter “enemy plots.”
According to Human Rights Activists in Iran (as of Friday):
- At least 65 people have been killed
- 2,311 individuals arrested
- Protests recorded at 512 locations across 180 cities
Time magazine reported the death toll may exceed 200, with a Western diplomat noting higher estimates from NGOs as credible. The exiled opposition group NCRI warned that fatalities in smaller towns could significantly raise the actual death count.
International Response
European and Western leaders have strongly condemned the violence:
- French President Emmanuel Macron, German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, and UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer called on Iranian authorities to “refrain from violence.”
- European Parliament President Roberta Metsola expressed support for protestors.
- European Commission top diplomat Kaja Kallas labeled any violence against protesters as “unacceptable.”
From the United States:
- President Donald Trump voiced strong support for the demonstrators.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio affirmed that the U.S. “supports the brave people of Iran.”
Protesters were also seen outside the Iranian embassy in Brussels, though the demonstration had dispersed by Saturday afternoon.
