Iranian Canadian Congress of B.C. against Trump’s intervention

Iranian-Canadian families across Metro Vancouver are growing increasingly worried about the safety of loved ones in Iran, as anti-government protests continue to be met with a deadly crackdown and a near-total communications blackout.

The president of the Iranian Canadian Congress of B.C., David Ghavami, tells 1130 NewsRadio that many people — including himself — have been unable to reach family members and friends after Iranian authorities restricted internet access, cut phone lines, and even shut down power in parts of the country at night.

“For the last week, nobody could easily contact their family members,” he said. “So this is a huge concern … I don’t know exactly what’s happening.”

Anti-government protests erupted in Iran over rising inflation and the high cost of living, but have since morphed into calls for Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei to step down.

Activists say more than 500 people have been killed and more than 10,000 arrested since this wave of protests began in late December.

Ghavami says the situation has created enormous amounts of anxiety among Iranians living abroad, including those in Metro Vancouver and across the world.

“It’s not a happy time for the Iranian community. We are very nervous and concerned.”

On Monday, Canada issued a joint statement alongside Australia and the European Union condemning Iran’s response.

However, Ghavami believes stronger international pressure is needed to stop the violence.

“Talking is not going to stop any scenario in Iran, and it’s not going to stop this atrocity. We need action.”

He is calling on Ottawa and its allies to increase diplomatic pressure on Tehran through international sanctions and diplomatic expulsions.

Meanwhile, tensions are also rising between Iran and the United States.

Ghavami against foreign military intervention

On Monday, the White House said President Donald Trump is keeping all options on the table, including potential military action, even as U.S. officials remain open to engaging in diplomatic talks with the Iranian government.

Ghavami says he does not want to see foreign military intervention, but emphasizes the international community must side with the Iranian people rather than negotiate with the government.

“We are not inviting the United States to take military action against Iran because this might worsen the situation in Iran. At the same time, we need their support and solidarity with the Iranian people if they can do something to help.”

Ghavami says Iranian groups across Metro Vancouver are planning more solidarity rallies in the days ahead.