European Policymakers Reevaluate Iran Approach Challenging the Status Quo On Iran

Over two weeks after a crucial discussion panel titled "European Policy on Iran" in Paris, the aftermath of this panel sweeps across Europe, with policymakers rethinking their approach toward Iran.

The panel brought together esteemed experts to deliberate on the most appropriate approach towards Iran. Dr. Alejo Vidal Quadras, Vice President of the European Parliament from 2004 to 2014, set the tone by urging European leaders to stop appeasing the mullahs' regime and instead support the Iranian people and their organized Resistance for a free Iran.

Dr. Alejo Vidal Quadras began his contribution by emphasizing the complexity of the EU's institutional framework. He highlighted that not all EU institutions have the same policies toward Iran, with executive, legislative, and judiciary powers behaving differently in relation to the regime. For decades, the EU's executive power had pursued a policy based on two illusions: the belief in moderates within the regime and the idea of appeasing the regime through negotiations. Quadras pointed out that these illusions have been proven false, and the policy has failed miserably.

The former Vice President of the European Parliament criticized the refusal of EU policymakers to take risks. He contrasted this approach with the Iranian Resistance, represented by the MEK and NCRI, who demonstrate immense courage and dedication, risking their lives every day in the fight for a free Iran. Quadras argued that by shying away from risks, EU policymakers unwittingly increase risks every year and hinder the opposition's efforts.

Peter Altmaier, Former Federal Minister for Economic Affairs and Energy of Germany, took the floor to express his admiration for the Iranian people's resilience in the face of decades of repression. He noted that the recent protests by Iranian youth and Russia's aggression against Ukraine had created a shift in perception regarding the Iranian democratic opposition. Altmaier hailed Mrs. Rajavi's 10-point plan as a remarkable summary of universal values, offering a basis for joint action by all democratic nations.

Altmaier urged the recruitment of more civil servants and experts in intelligence services and ministries dealing with Iran to bolster support for the Iranian people. He advocated involving human rights activists and providing assistance to Iranian youth who have bravely demonstrated for their rights. The former German Minister stressed the significance of the 10-point plan, which promises to transform Iran into a developed democracy with improved living standards for its citizens.

Kimmo Sasi, former Minister of Foreign Trade and Minister of Transport and Communications of Finland, and former President of the Nordic Council, candidly criticized the European Union for being too soft in implementing human rights declarations, especially in Iran where human rights are most violated. He highlighted Iran's support for terrorism and its involvement in terrorist activities on European soil, emphasizing the need for decisive action to counter these threats.

Sasi condemned the policy of appeasement and advocated for harder sanctions against Iran, particularly targeting the Revolutionary Guards, which he labeled as one of the most corrupt organizations globally. He firmly believed in the potential of regime change and supported Mrs. Rajavi's 10-point plan as a pathway to a better future for the Iranian people.

AudroniusAžubalis, Member of the Lithuanian Parliament and former Foreign Minister of Lithuania, praised the Iranian Resistance for keeping the Iranian cause alive over the years. He acknowledged the challenge of prioritizing trade over values but stressed the need for real politics and decisive actions in the face of threats posed by the Iranian regime.

Ažubalis urged for stricter sanctions against Iran, especially targeting Iran's UAV experts and factories, which are significant contributors to Russia's war in Ukraine. He emphasized that while the European Parliament stands united in supporting freedom and democracy in Iran, corporate interests often prevail over concrete measures when dealing with the regime.

Bob Blackman MP from the United Kingdom took a historical perspective, recounting the phases of European and American policies towards Iran over the last 40 years. He pointed out that while sanctions temporarily weakened the regime, the JCPOA provided breathing space for the mullahs to continue their oppressive rule and advance their nuclear ambitions.

Blackman firmly advocated for absolute sanctions against the regime, specifically targeting the IRGC and seizing its assets for the benefit of the Iranian people. He expressed pride in proposing a motion in the British House of Commons, which was unanimously supported by all political parties, calling for such sanctions. Blackman stressed the importance of implementing Mrs. Rajavi's 10-point democratic plan and emphasized that the Iranian people should have the right to choose their leader through free and fair elections.

The panel discussions provided valuable insights into the European policy on Iran, highlighting the failures of appeasement and advocating for stricter sanctions and unwavering support for the Iranian people and their organized Resistance. The expert panelists unanimously emphasized the need for a new approach that prioritizes human rights, democracy, and regional stability in Iran, rather than continuing outdated policies that have yielded no positive results. As the Iranian people continue their struggle for freedom, it is crucial for European leaders to heed the panelists' recommendations and stand in solidarity with the Iranian Resistance in their pursuit of a free and democratic Iran.