4th January 2026 - On 2nd January 2026, The British Committee for Iran Freedom issued a strong statement backing Iran’s nationwide protests, warning that the regime’s violent response reflects growing fear of a population demanding democratic change. As demonstrations spread and security forces intensify their crackdown, the group has urged the UK Government and the international community to act to prevent further bloodshed and hold those responsible to account.
In its statement, the British Committee for Iran Freedom condemns the use of lethal force against protesters, reports of student abductions, and attempts by state authorities to undermine the uprising through disinformation. The organisation reiterates its support for the Iranian people’s demands for freedom and democracy, while calling for urgent international action to counter repression and protect those participating in the protests.
The full statement is as follows:
The British Committee for Iran Freedom (BCFIF) supports the Iranian people’s nationwide uprising and stands with the brave protesters demanding freedom and a better future. This latest uprising, which began as protests against economic grievances and has now entered its sixth day, shows that the Iranian people are fed up with the state corruption, reject all forms of tyranny and desire to establish a democratic republic.
We are deeply alarmed by the regime’s violent crackdown on these protests, including the use of lethal force against defenceless protesters in several Iranian cities. Recent reports indicate that at least three individuals have been killed, with a brutal raid executed at a women’s dormitory in Tehran and abduction of students, further threatening their lives and safety.
As Mrs Maryam Rajavi, the President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), noted, such aggression reflects the regime’s deep-seated fear of the Iranian people, especially the pivotal role young women and students play in the protest movement.
We join Mrs Rajavi in condemning this repressive violence and urge the international community to act urgently to prevent further bloodshed and ensure accountability for those perpetrating these atrocities.
Moreover, we are concerned about the regime’s deceptive tactics to undermine the popular uprising by sowing discord and promoting disinformation and “fake alternatives”. Verified reports indicate that security forces are attempting to manipulate public perception, employing tactics such as audio alterations in protest videos to mislead the public and the international community.
However, the Iranian people expose these desperate attempts with their popular chant, “Down with the oppressor, be it the Shah or the Supreme Leader [Khamenei]”.
The British Committee for Iran Freedom (BCFIF) reiterates its calls to the UK Government, which have widespread, cross-party support in both Houses of the Parliament:
- Support the legitimate demands of the Iranian people for democratic change;
- Act urgently with international partners to counter state repression and secure the release of all detainees;
- Recognise the right of the Iranian people to end the religious dictatorship and establish a free, democratic, and secular republic in Iran.
British Committee for Iran Freedom
2 January 2026
