Protest Rally by Organization of Iranian American Communities in Washington: The World Must Hold Raisi Accountable for His Actions

A group of Iranians gathered in Washington, the capital of the United States, on Monday, August 2, one day before Ibrahim Raisi’s presidential inauguration, to hold a protest rally in front of the U.S. Congress building in support of recent public protests in Iran.

The rally was organized by the Organization of Iranian American Communities.

Republican Senator Ted Cruz, a member of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee, said in a written message to the rally participants: “The truth about the murders that Raisi has committed cannot be hidden by internet shutdowns or media blackouts. I join you and many other Americans who seek democracy and support for human rights in Iran, as I continue efforts in the legislative arena.”

Elliot Engel, former chairman of the House Foreign Affairs Committee, also responded to a question from the Voice of America’s Persian service regarding his assessment of the Biden administration’s performance in supporting the Iranian people, saying: “Overall, the Biden administration’s performance has been appropriate and good. However, it must be ensured that any agreement with Iran does not make that country stronger. The Islamic Republic is an oppressive regime and is very bad for the Iranian people. The United States should clearly state that it is not doing anything that strengthens the current ruling establishment in Iran, as it has so far committed terrible crimes.”

At this rally, images of victims of executions by the Islamic Republic of Iran, particularly those from 1988, were displayed, and rally participants called for the world to hold Raisi accountable for his actions.

Oshrat Najibzadeh, a mother whose three children—Mehran, Mandana, and Mohammad—were executed in Islamic Republic prisons, told Voice of America that she is calling on U.S. officials not to allow Raisi to enter the United States to speak at the United Nations General Assembly.

Maryam Rajavi, chair of the National Council of Resistance, also called on the U.S. Congress to continue a firm bipartisan policy against the ruling regime in Iran.

Ramesh Sepahrad, one of the rally organizers, told Voice of America: “The protesters are calling for the continuation of U.S. government pressure, including increased sanctions against Khamenei and Raisi. Additionally, criminal investigations against Raisi should be launched.”

Source: Voice of America