International Support for Iran's Uprising; Strong Criticism of Repression and Internet Blackout

As the nationwide uprising in Iran continues and government repression intensifies, several international officials and organizations have expressed their support for the protesters and condemned the violent crackdown and nationwide internet shutdown by the Islamic Republic. Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasized on Saturday, January 20, that the European Union stands 'fully' with Iranian protesters. She stated that the streets of Iran are witnessing the presence of men and women demanding fundamental freedoms, including freedom of expression, assembly, and the right to live freely. Von der Leyen condemned the repression of protests and called for the release of detainees and the immediate restoration of internet access. Simultaneously, the EU's foreign policy chief and the President of the European Parliament also denounced violence against protesters and emphasized the right to peaceful protest. Roberta Metsola, President of the European Parliament, announced on X (formerly Twitter) that the Iranian government's efforts to limit communications have failed to silence the voices of protesters. She stressed that the world continues to witness the resilience of the brave people of Iran and hears their message demanding dignity, respect, and freedom, adding that Europe stands with the people of Iran. Volker Turk, the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights, expressed serious concern over reports of the killing of protesters and the nationwide internet shutdown, calling for an immediate, independent, and transparent investigation into deaths and accountability for human rights violations. He deemed the internet shutdown an action contrary to freedom of expression that disrupts the documentation of violations and access to essential services. Andrii Sybiha, Ukraine's Foreign Minister, also supported the 'Iranian National Revolution' and urged the international community to increase pressure on Tehran in response to violence against the Iranian people. Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch also issued a joint statement indicating that a deadly crackdown using unlawful force, firearms, and widespread arrests has been ongoing since late December 2025.