News Center- The European Union calls on Iran to immediately stop the violent crackdown on protests that began following the killing of Jina Mahsa Amini, and ensure internet access, as well as the free flow of information.

In a statement on behalf of the EU, the EU's foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said that despite repeated calls for restraint, the response of the Iranian security and police forces to demonstrations has been disproportionate and resulted in the loss of lives as well as a large number of injuries. He also said that moves to severely restrict internet access by the relevant Iranian authorities and to block instant messaging platforms is a further cause for concern, as it blatantly violates freedom of expression. “For the European Union and its member states, the widespread and disproportionate use of force against nonviolent protestors is unjustifiable and unacceptable,” he added.

“The EU and its member states urge the Iranian authorities to strictly abide by the principles enshrined in the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights, to which Iran is a party,” he said calling on Iran “to immediately stop the violent crackdown on protests and ensure internet access, as well as the free flow of information.” The statement also urged “Iran to clarify the number of deaths and arrested, release all non-violent protestors and provide due process to all detainees.”

“The European Union will continue to consider all the options at its disposal ahead of the next Foreign Affairs Council, to address the killing of Mahsa Amini and the way Iranian security forces have responded to the ensuing demonstrations,” the statement said.