Former Officials Urge Iranian Opposition to Seize Moment

At a recent rally organized by the Iranian National Council of Resistance in Paris, retired Lt. Gen. Keith Kellogg emphasized that Iran’s rulers are experiencing unprecedented weakness and called on the opposition to act decisively. He described this time as a “historic opening,” suggesting that the opportunities for change won’t last long.

“The window is open wider than at any moment in a generation, and it won’t stay open forever,” Kellogg remarked during the two-day event. He stated that the current Iranian theocracy will not simply relinquish power and must be pressured to do so. “Hope is here. We must act now,” he added.

Kellogg, who has previously served as a U.S. Army lieutenant general and special envoy to Ukraine, noted that any disarmament agreement should not be seen as the ultimate goal but rather as a preliminary step towards something much larger. It should provide a foundation for a future Iran absent of its existing leadership.

Pompeo Sees Historic Opportunity With Iranian Regime

President-elect of the NCRI, Maryam Rajavi, voiced her belief that neither military action nor negotiations would effectively address the threats presented by Iran’s government. “A peaceful and nuclear-free Iran is possible only through the overthrow of this regime by the Iranian people and their organized resistance,” she stated. She emphasized that any international agreements should include provisions for ending political executions and the killing of protesters.

Kellogg reminded the audience of the significant role the NCRI played in revealing Iran’s nuclear facilities in 2002, urging them to ensure strict verification of any agreements. “When I say trust but verify,” he explained, “please understand that verification is not an abstraction to this council. It is your legacy.” He underscored the need for vigilance in ensuring compliance with promises made.

The event anticipated attendance from tens of thousands of Iranian expatriates, although French authorities issued a ban on outdoor gatherings due to security concerns, which was later upheld by a court. This decision was based on specific threats of violence connected to Iran’s adversaries.

France Condemns Iran’s Actions Against Protestors

Despite this ban, protesters gathered outside, leading to police interventions and approximately 20 arrests. Ali Safavi from the NCRI criticized the French government’s decision as an “unjust act of capitulation,” asserting that Paris should have safeguarded the right to peaceful assembly.

Former British Prime Minister Boris Johnson also condemned the ban, labeling it a “tragic mistake,” and stressed that Western nations must ensure that the voices of Iran’s opponents are amplified.

Iran’s Government Faces Increasing Pressure

Ukrainian former Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba spoke at the rally, linking Ukraine’s struggles against Russia to the Iranian opposition’s fight against Tehran. He mentioned that Ukrainians had wished to participate but were appalled by France’s ban, asserting solidarity with those advocating for democracy and freedom. He highlighted Iran’s role in supporting Russia’s military actions, mentioning the use of Iranian technology in attacks against Ukraine.

“If the voice of freedom is to be heard in Iran, Western countries must ensure that the voice of freedom is heard in our capitals and around the world,” Johnson reiterated during his remarks.

The French government has yet to respond regarding the situation. Meanwhile, tensions continue as advocates for Iranian freedom urge the global community to support their cause.