In an extensive interview titled “A Democratic Alternative for Post-Theocracy Iran” conducted by The Cambridge Journal of Law, Politics, and Art, Ali Safavi, a member of the foreign affairs committee of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), provided a comprehensive overview of the Iranian opposition’s struggle against the current regime and its vision for a democratic future. Speaking on a wide range of topics, from his personal experiences as a student activist to the recent protests in Iran, Safavi offered insights into the opposition’s strategies and called for increased international support. The interview, which delved into the complexities of Iran’s political landscape and the aspirations of its people, highlighted the NCRI’s role as a key player in shaping the discourse around Iran’s future and its efforts to garner international backing for democratic change in the country.
Discussing the recent protests in Iran, Safavi highlighted the crucial role of women and youth. He stated, “The 2022 uprising, catalyzed by the tragic death of Mahsa Amini at the hands of the regime’s security forces, symbolized a resounding call for freedom and democracy.” Safavi emphasized the severity of the regime’s response, pointing to Amnesty International reports that documented widespread killings and torture. He stressed that these actions by the authorities demonstrated the regime’s willingness to use extreme measures to suppress dissent, further underscoring the urgency of the protesters’ demands for fundamental change in Iran’s governance.
Safavi was particularly critical of the regime’s human rights record, stating, “The Iranian regime systematically violates the fundamental rights of its populace, undermining the essence of human existence.” He pointed to specific incidents such as the 1988 massacre of political prisoners and ongoing executions as evidence of the regime’s brutality.
The Cambridge Journal of Law, Politics, and Art: Special Edition: The Human Agendahttps://t.co/lvs36qoyST
Here is part of my interview with CJLPA:
"Founded by visionary Muslim intellectuals—Mohammad Hanifnejad, Saeed Mohsen, and Ali Asghar Badizadegan—in September 1965, the… pic.twitter.com/gsOJVEyaIH— Ali Safavi (@amsafavi) July 3, 2024
Safavi outlined the NCRI’s plan for Iran’s future, emphasizing a commitment to democracy, secularism, and human rights. “The NCRI fulfills a pivotal role by showing a path forward for the Iranian people and the global community—an alternative that stands ready to usher in a new era post-regime,” he said. The plan includes gender equality, minority rights, and the abolition of the death penalty.
He stressed the importance of having a viable alternative ready for when the current regime falls, stating, “The alternative functions as the guiding force, orchestrating the course of actions in this battle. It elucidates the necessary steps, defines the direction, sets priorities, and safeguards the Iranian people’s assets from the regime’s plundering machinations.”
A significant portion of the interview focused on Safavi’s appeal for international support. He criticized Western policies of engagement with Tehran, arguing that “appeasing the Iranian regime and acquiescing to its demands and blackmail remain to be one of the main challenges” in effecting change.
Safavi called for specific actions from the international community, including:
- Placing the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) on terrorist lists
- Shutting down Iranian embassies in Europe
- Expelling regime agents from European institutions
- Restoring UN Security Council resolutions and sanctions
- Recognizing the Iranian people’s struggle for regime change
Who Represents the People of #Iran?https://t.co/B6fXrDkBWb
— NCRI-FAC (@iran_policy) September 7, 2023
He emphasized that these measures would “convey a strong message to Tehran’s tyrants.”
Drawing parallels with historical events, Safavi warned against the dangers of appeasing dictators, referencing Neville Chamberlain’s approach to Hitler before World War II. He stressed the importance of learning from past mistakes and supporting a strong alternative to the current regime.
Looking to the future, Safavi expressed determination to continue and expand the opposition’s activities both inside Iran and internationally. He stated, “The MEK-affiliated Resistance Units inside Iran have seen growth in their activities, both in scale and impact and this expansion is set to continue.”
Safavi concluded the interview with a powerful message to the global community: “Our resistance, led courageously by women and the youth, is not just a series of sporadic protests but a sustained movement forged through relentless sacrifice and unwavering hope.” He emphasized that the struggle in Iran has implications beyond its borders, arguing that “a democratic Iran would be a lynchpin for enduring peace and stability in the region.”
This comprehensive interview provides valuable insights into the Iranian opposition’s perspective, strategies, and aspirations. As protests continue to challenge the current government in Tehran, Safavi’s words underscore the complexity of the situation and the high stakes involved in Iran’s political future. The opposition’s call for international support highlights the global implications of Iran’s internal struggle, presenting a challenge to policymakers worldwide as they navigate their relationships with Iran.
The full text of the Interview:
