Around 1,500 demonstrators marched through central London on March 9, 2024, urging the UK Government to close the Iranian embassy. The protest began outside Downing Street and culminated at the embassy in Westminster. Organisers called for the proscription of the Iranian Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC) as they voiced their discontent with the Iranian regime.
As the protesters gathered, several speakers highlighted their objectives. One key issue raised was the need for the UK to designate the IRGC as a terrorist organisation. Demonstrators held images of Reza Pahlavi, the exiled crown prince of Iran. One participant, who wished to remain anonymous, stated, “We support him to be our next king or alternative to this regime.”
The crowd echoed with chants of “IRGC’s terrorist, UK put them on the list,” as they made their way through the city. An Iranian national, also choosing to remain unnamed, expressed his belief that Mr. Pahlavi represents the “only alternative” leadership for Iran. He added, “We are not a dictatorship, we don’t want a dictatorship, we just want a democracy.”
Among the protesters was a 35-year-old man who identified himself only as Sam. He attended the demonstration to express solidarity with the Iranian people fighting for their freedom and against terrorism. Holding a banner that read, “The people of Iran are desperate for President Trump’s help. We need military support,” he underscored the urgency of international attention on the situation in Iran.
Chants demanding the closure of the Iranian embassy and the deportation of Iranian diplomats resonated throughout the march. Protesters shouted, “Trump, Trump, act now, act now,” reflecting their desire for immediate action from international leaders.
The protest drew attention from various communities, including Romana Yasynovska, a Ukrainian national living in London. Holding a sign that read, “I am a Ukrainian mom. I’m here for a world where my daughter and Iran’s daughters can share the same right – to be women,” she noted the shared struggles of both Ukrainian and Iranian people. “Today I am trying to support them because I know how important that is,” she explained, highlighting the significance of solidarity across borders.
The five-hour demonstration remained peaceful, adhering to a defined route from Downing Street through Pall Mall and along Piccadilly. The Metropolitan Police imposed conditions to mitigate serious disruption and limit disturbance to local residents.
As the rally concluded, the demonstrators expressed hope that their efforts would resonate beyond London, potentially influencing international policy regarding the Iranian regime. The event showcased a collective call for change, underscoring the desire for democracy and human rights in Iran.
