The European Union Calls for Accountability for Violence and Human Rights Violations in Iran on the Second Anniversary of Mahsa Amini's Death

Josep Borrell, the EU's foreign policy chief, issued a statement on Monday, September 17, marking the second anniversary of Mahsa (Zhina) Amini's death, calling for accountability for those responsible for violence and human rights violations in Iran. In the beginning of his statement, the senior European diplomat commemorated Mahsa's memory, stating that the courage and determination of Iranians, especially Iranian women, created the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement. According to him, two years ago, Iranians took to the streets demanding respect for their fundamental rights. Borrell added that given the dire human rights situation in Iran, particularly the suppression of women's rights, the voices of the Iranian people seeking dignity and equality must be heard and respected. He reminded that the suppression of the 'Women, Life, Freedom' movement by Iranian authorities has resulted in the deaths of hundreds, injuries and unjust detention of thousands, and severe restrictions on freedom of expression and other civil liberties of Iranians. Borrell emphasized the EU's strong and unequivocal opposition to the death penalty and torture under any circumstances and for any excuse, referring to the harsh sentences issued by the judiciary against protesters. He added that the EU continues to urge the Iranian government to eliminate all forms of discrimination, including discrimination against Iranian women and girls, both in law and in practice, in both public and private spheres. The senior European diplomat once again called on the Islamic Republic to cooperate with international human rights organizations, including the UN fact-finding committee. He also demanded an end to the unacceptable and illegal practice of arbitrary detention of European citizens and Iranian-European dual nationals and the immediate release of detainees. The nationwide protests of 1401, which began in response to Mahsa Amini's death on the evening of September 16 that year in front of Kasra Hospital in Tehran, intensified with the significant presence of citizens at her funeral in Saqqez, and in the following days, it gained national scope, continuing for months in public spaces, schools, and universities. The name Mahsa (Zhina) Amini, as inscribed on her grave during her burial, became a 'code name' for these protests both inside and outside Iran. The suppression of peaceful protests by the Islamic Republic's official and plainclothes forces reportedly left over five hundred dead. Another significant event during these protests was the widespread shooting of protesters by government forces during Friday prayers in Zahedan in Mehr of that year, which left dozens dead; an incident that became known as 'Bloody Friday of Zahedan.' A joint statement from the US, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, and the UK on the second anniversary of Mahsa: 'We stand with Iranian women and girls.' Exclusive; Abram Peely: The US continues to support the people of Iran and hold the Islamic Republic accountable. The UN Special Rapporteur on the second anniversary of Mahsa: 'We witness the unwavering resistance of women and girls in Iran.' Australia sanctioned 'five security and military officials of the Iranian government' on the second anniversary of Mahsa Amini's death. Amir Hossein Moradi and Ali Younesi on Mahsa's anniversary: 'A spark could start the uprising to overthrow Khamenei.'