On October 26, prominent political figures and experts convened in Berlin under the theme “Breaking the Deadlock: Perspectives for a New Iran Policy.” This significant conference, organized by Leo Dautzenberg, former MP and Chair of the German Solidarity Committee for a Free Iran, brought together influential voices from Europe and the United States to explore strategic shifts in approaching Iran’s authoritarian regime.
Among the attendees were Mrs. Maryam Rajavi, President-elect of the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI); Prof. Dr. Herta Däubler-Gmelin, former German Federal Minister of Justice; Dr. Alejo Vidal-Quadras, President of the International Committee In Search of Justice (ISJ); Ambassador Lincoln Bloomfield, former U.S. Assistant Secretary of State; and Dr. Rudolf Adam, former Vice President of Germany’s Federal Intelligence Service. Video messages of support were shared by former German Defense Minister Dr. Franz Josef Jung and former German Chancellery Chief Peter Altmaier.
Maryam Rajavi: A Call for Solidarity
Mrs. Maryam Rajavi underscored the need for international support for the “struggle of the Iranian people to overthrow religious fascism.” She recounted the NCRI’s stance that Iran’s regime is a destabilizing force in the Middle East, a position that aligns with perspectives shared by Germany’s Foreign Minister and members of the Bundestag.
Rajavi criticized decades of EU policies, which she argued have granted the regime immunity from accountability, enabling its nuclear ambitions and violent repression both domestically and abroad.
This appeasement, she claimed, must be replaced by a more assertive stance. Rajavi highlighted NCRI’s longstanding vision for a democratic Iran, emphasizing its principles of separation of religion from the state, gender equality, and human rights. She appealed to Germany and the EU to recognize the Iranian people’s struggle as a path to regional peace.
A Shift from Past Western Policy Failures
Leo Dautzenberg spoke on missed opportunities in 1979, when Western powers failed to establish connections with a democratic opposition in Iran, enabling the rise of Ayatollah Khomeini. Dautzenberg argued that real change in Iran is contingent on supporting a viable opposition movement, asserting that the NCRI and the People’s Mojahedin Organization of Iran (PMOI/MEK) represent an organized, democratic alternative capable of mobilizing Iran’s people against authoritarianism.
European Leaders Advocate for Human Rights Accountability
Prof. Dr. Herta Däubler-Gmelin advocated a strong stance from Europe on Iran’s human rights abuses, particularly against women. She pointed to rising executions and repression, highlighting that silence on such issues ultimately undermines peace. Däubler-Gmelin urged EU leaders to formally acknowledge reports on Iran’s human rights violations and to adopt a firmer response.
Similarly, Dr. Alejo Vidal-Quadras denounced Europe’s approach to Iran as “counterproductive,” advocating for a complete shift from dialogue and concessions to isolation. He proposed a five-point EU strategy, including closing EU embassies in Tehran, expelling Iranian diplomats, and designating the Revolutionary Guards as a terrorist organization to curb the regime’s reach and operational capacities.
Ambassador Bloomfield: Time to Reassess Iran Policy
Ambassador Lincoln Bloomfield issued a strong call for Western governments to re-evaluate their approach to Iran. Highlighting recent setbacks for Tehran, he pointed to mounting evidence of crimes against humanity and genocide, urging governments to confront Tehran’s disinformation network.
Bloomfield expressed confidence in the NCRI’s democratic credentials, commending it as a credible alternative to the theocratic regime. “A change is coming,” he said, adding that the Iranian people are poised to rebuild their nation.
Peter Altmaier and Dr. Rudolf Adam on Policy Shifts and Support for Democratic Opposition
Peter Altmaier urged a policy shift, referencing the German government’s disillusionment with Iran’s oppressive policies. He endorsed Maryam Rajavi’s Ten-Point Plan for a democratic Iran, praising it as an embodiment of the values Iranians seek.
Dr. Adam, reflecting on Iran’s destabilizing influence, called for practical measures, such as blocking Iranian arms exports and supporting the NCRI’s vision for a peaceful, democratic Iran. Adam emphasized that supporting a viable alternative is essential to overcoming authoritarianism.
An International Coalition for Iran’s Future
Speakers underscored the role of NCRI as an effective and united opposition force, with many highlighting the resilience of the PMOI and its contributions to Iran’s democratic future. The conference conveyed a resounding call for Europe and the West to reassess their stance on Iran and extend tangible support to democratic opposition forces. Panelists argued that such support is not only a step toward justice for the Iranian people but also a vital measure for regional stability and global peace.
As Tehran grapples with internal discontent and mounting international pressure, the NCRI and its supporters in Berlin stressed that now is the moment for the West to align with the aspirations of the Iranian people and champion a democratic Iran.
