A Paris court banned a pro-democracy demonstration against Iran's Islamic dictatorship just hours before it was due to start, citing a dual terrorist bomb threat. Armed French police then prevented an Express reporter from covering the event, threatening arrest.
Court Bans Protest at 11th Hour
Up to 100,000 protesters were expected in Place Vauban Square in Paris on Saturday to rally against the Iranian regime. However, a judge banned the gathering after French authorities received bomb threats allegedly from the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC). The National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI) stated that such threats are common at their events, but this was the first time a ban was imposed.
Heavy Police Presence and Clashes
Despite the ban, a small number of demonstrators gathered and were met by a massive contingent of riot police equipped with shields, side-arms, and automatic weapons. Reports indicate 20 people were arrested and 12 seriously wounded in scuffles. The mood turned ugly, contrasting with the usually peaceful nature of these events.
Reporter Denied Access
Express reporter Paul Baldwin was told to leave the area by a police officer. He showed his press card and explained he was a legitimate UK journalist, but the officer insisted. Baldwin said: "I remonstrated, showing him my press card and pointing out I was a bona fide UK journalist just doing my job but I realised if I didn’t back away I was going to get nicked, which would help no-one."
Questions Over France's Stance
Baldwin questioned why France would take a stance favouring the Iranian regime over pro-democracy activists. He noted that in January, an estimated 40,000 people, mainly young Iranians, were killed by the IRGC during an uprising. "If that happened in any other country the UN, and the world, would be in uproar. In Iran it is just business as usual," he wrote.
Protesters' Views
Some protesters told Baldwin that recent US policies had made their situation worse. One said: "All we are asking is the same privileges you enjoy. Why does no-one help us. All the West does is legitimise the regime by engaging with it." An American reporter added: "You guys still have skin in Iran’s game. There’s so much money at stake if the regime is toppled. The UK needs the regime to survive."
