On June 30th in Paris, a discussion panel titled “European Policy on Iran” took place, bringing together 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. 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. He 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 opposition movement, who demonstrate immense courage and dedication, risking their lives every day in the fight for a free Iran. He 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 in Angela Merkel’s cabinet, 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 underlined the importance of the 10-point plan presented by the NCRI’s President-elect, Maryam Rajavi, 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, criticized the European Union for being too soft in implementing human rights declarations as it is expected, 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 harsher 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.
Audronius Ažubalis, Member of the Lithuanian Parliament and former Foreign Minister of Lithuania, acknowledged the challenge of prioritizing trade over values in international relations and 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.
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 opposition movement. The expert panelists unanimously emphasized the need for a new approach that prioritizes human rights, democracy, and regional stability rather than continuing outdated policies that have yielded no positive results.