Tehran / Global — Sardar Mushtaq Gill, founder of LEAD Ministries, has issued a strong condemnation of Iran’s recent violent crackdown on protests, calling on the international community to support the Iranian people and demand accountability from the regime.
In a statement released on Thursday, Gill described the unrest as a response to widespread economic hardship, soaring inflation, and years of political repression. He emphasized that peaceful protests by students, women, workers, journalists, lawyers, and small business owners are a legitimate expression of the public’s demand for justice and reform.
"The people of Iran are showing extraordinary courage in standing up for their rights, yet the regime has responded not with dialogue or reform, but with indiscriminate violence, mass arrests, and intimidation," Gill said.
He highlighted that the Iranian government has long treated civic engagement as a threat to state security, and noted that recent measures—including internet shutdowns, digital surveillance, and censorship—have further restricted access to information and heightened risks for human rights defenders and political prisoners.
"Rather than addressing grievances, the authorities are using fear and coercion to silence their citizens. This must end," Gill said.
Gill also drew attention to Iran’s long-standing suppression of religious freedom:
“The Iranian regime has historically forced its people to adhere to strict interpretations of Islam, persecuting Christians and other religious minorities. Religious freedom has been systematically denied, with believers facing harassment, imprisonment, and restrictions on worship. This pattern of oppression is a clear violation of fundamental human rights and adds another layer to the ongoing struggle for freedom in Iran.”
In urging global action, Gill specifically highlighted the role of international leaders:
“Global leaders, including President Trump, must carefully consider the situation in Iran as part of their efforts to maintain peace and prosperity in the region. Supporting the Iranian people and holding the regime accountable is not just a matter of justice—it is essential for regional stability and the promotion of lasting peace worldwide.”
The LEAD Ministries founder called on governments, international organizations, and human rights groups to take concrete action: “The world cannot remain silent. We must stand with the Iranian people, demand accountability for these abuses, and ensure that violent suppression of peaceful dissent is not met with impunity.”
Observers say the protests, which have spread across multiple cities in Iran, reflect deep public frustration over both economic mismanagement and lack of political freedoms. Despite the risks, demonstrations continue, underscoring the population’s determination to assert its rights.
Gill concluded with a message of solidarity: “LEAD Ministries stands with every Iranian seeking justice and freedom. The time for global action is now.”
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