The Munich Security Conference (MSC) has excluded the Iranian government for the third successive year, opting instead to feature US-based Iranian activist Masih Alinejad. Reza Pahlavi condemned his disinvitation, claiming it aids the silencing of Iranian voices. Protests are anticipated outside the venue by Iranian opposition groups, even as discussions on Iran’s interactions and human rights issues remain central to the conference agenda.
The Munich Security Conference (MSC) has once again excluded the Iranian government from its proceedings, marking the third consecutive year of this decision. Instead, the MSC has invited Masih Alinejad, a prominent US-based Iranian women’s activist, to partake in various panels, as reported by Radio Free Europe. This exclusion has drawn criticism, particularly from former Iranian crown prince Reza Pahlavi, who had previously been invited but later disinvited from the conference on two occasions.
In a statement, Pahlavi condemned the German government for not allowing him to attend after his earlier participation in 2023, which coincided with protests against the Iranian regime following the murder of Mahsa Amini. He accused Germany of enabling Ayatollah Ali Khamenei’s influence in Berlin, consequently allowing the silencing of the Iranian populace. Pahlavi lamented that such interventions from the German Foreign Ministry positioned Germany negatively in historical context.
Pahlavi expressed determination to continue advocating for freedom in Iran, asserting that exclusion from the conference was not merely a personal affront but an attempt to silence all who fight for justice and dignity within the country. He affirmed his commitment to the cause, stating that true liberation would not depend on foreign governments but would be determined by the Iranian people.
A spokesperson from the German Foreign Ministry clarified that while there is communication with the MSC, the conference retains independence in its invitation decisions. Outside the conference venue, the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), recognized as a terrorist group by Tehran, plans to protest, indicating a complex dynamic between the Iranian opposition and international diplomatic efforts.
Both Reza Pahlavi and Masih Alinejad have called upon Western nations to adopt a tougher stance against the Iranian regime and halt negotiations. Although Iran’s representation may be lacking, discussions surrounding its nuclear program, human rights violations, and regional proxy relationships are anticipated to be central themes at the conference.
Maryam Rajavi, leader of the People’s Mujahedin of Iran and president-elect of the NCRI, praised the protesters outside the conference and proclaimed the Iranian regime’s imminent downfall. She appealed for international support against what she termed ‘religious fascism’, asserting that investment in the current regime is futile and urging the global community to align with the aspirations of the Iranian people in their struggle for freedom.
The Munich Security Conference’s decision to exclude the Iranian government for the third year consistently highlights growing tensions between Western nations and the Tehran regime. Key figures such as Reza Pahlavi and Masih Alinejad emphasize the need for a firmer stance against Iran, reflecting a concerted effort among Iranian dissidents to gain international support. Despite the absence of the Iranian government, discussions on key issues will likely emerge, furthering the dialogue on Iran’s future.
Original Source: www.jpost.com
