Foreign Secretary Yvette Cooper has publicly commended the bravery of demonstrators in Iran, who are facing a violent state crackdown for exercising their fundamental rights.
UK Condemns Threat of Violence
Yvette Cooper stated that speaking out or gathering peacefully "should never come with the threat of violence or reprisals." She emphasised the particular courage shown by young women in defying the authoritarian system in Tehran. The Foreign Secretary's comments, made on Saturday 10 January 2026, align with a joint statement issued by the UK, France, and Germany urging Iranian authorities to show restraint.
Global Dissent and Embassy Incident
The wave of dissent, which began on 28 December, has spread internationally. In a notable incident in London, a protester removed the Iranian flag from the country's embassy, replacing it with the pre-revolutionary lion and sun banner favoured by opposition groups. The Metropolitan Police confirmed two arrests for aggravated trespass and assault on an emergency worker, with officers seeking another individual.
The Iranian embassy later posted an image on X showing its flag restored, captioned "Iran's flag is flying high."
Severe Human Toll and Regime Response
According to the US-based Human Rights Activists News Agency, the regime's response to the protests, initially sparked by economic anger, has been severe. At least 62 people have been killed and over 2,300 detained. Iranian leaders have restricted internet access and international calls to quell the unrest.
In a chilling warning, Iran's attorney general, Mohammad Movahedi Azad, declared protesters could be considered "enemies of God," a charge carrying the death penalty. The protests represent the most significant challenge to Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei's government in years.
International leaders, including Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer, French President Emmanuel Macron, and German Chancellor Friedrich Merz, have united in their call for Iranian restraint. US President Donald Trump also commented on Truth Social, stating, "Iran is looking at FREEDOM, perhaps like never before. The USA stands ready to help!!!"
