Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has issued a forceful condemnation of the Iranian regime's violent response to nationwide protests, calling for an immediate end to the bloodshed.
International Leaders Unite in Condemnation
In a significant diplomatic move, the British leader released a joint statement with the heads of government of France and Germany on Friday, 9 January 2026. The coordinated message expresses profound alarm at the escalating situation inside Iran.
The leaders stated they are "deeply concerned about reports of violence by Iranian security forces" and went further to "strongly" condemn the killing of demonstrators. They emphasised that the authorities in Tehran bear the fundamental duty to protect their population.
A Crackdown Sparked by Economic Anger
The protests, which have rocked the country for several weeks, were initially triggered by widespread public fury over Iran's severely ailing economy. The government's harsh reaction has, however, dramatically intensified the crisis.
According to reports from human rights groups, at least 62 people have been killed and a staggering 2,300 individuals detained during the weeks of unrest. In a bid to stifle dissent and control the narrative, the regime has also implemented a severe communications blackout.
Access to the internet and international telephone calls has been largely shut down, isolating protesters and making it difficult for information to reach the outside world.
A Call for Restraint and Fundamental Rights
The joint statement from the three European powers delivers a clear demand to the Iranian leadership. It insists that the authorities "must allow for the freedom of expression and peaceful assembly without fear of reprisal."
The core appeal from Sir Keir and his counterparts is a direct plea for de-escalation: "We urge the Iranian authorities to exercise restraint, to refrain from violence, and to uphold the fundamental rights of Iran’s citizens." This intervention underscores a firm Western stance against the suppression of peaceful protest and marks a key moment in UK foreign policy under the new Prime Minister.
