Iran: Prominent figures launch ‘No to War’ campaign
A group of prominent Iranian political, academic and civil figures have launched a campaign opposing the prospect of any military action against Iran reports The New Arab. The initiative, launched on February 25 and titled “No to War”, brings together hundreds of signatories who reject foreign intervention, calling for domestic reform as the appropriate path forward.
Those backing the petition come from different political backgrounds, among them progressive figures and former state officials. The initiative includes participants from across Iran’s political spectrum including philosopher Abdolkarim Soroush, political activist Behzad Nabavi and former first vice President Eshaq Jahangiri, who is considered reformist.
The three, alongside more than 350 other public figures, have signed the petition. It states that war is “among the greatest evils in politics”, arguing that external military action would deepen instability and undermine prospects for internal political development. Instead, the signatories emphasise the need for dialogue and reform within Iran’s existing political framework.
‘No to War’ was launched in response to calls from opposition figures abroad, including the son of the last Shah Mohammed Reza Pahlavi, who have urged the United States to consider military measures against the Iranian government. In rejecting this approach, the petition presents war as detrimental to both national sovereignty and regional stability.
Recent demonstrations by members of the Iranian diaspora have also prompted renewed anti-regime chants inside the country. Reporting by Maghrebi.org on 23rd February noted that slogans were heard in parts of Tehran following large rallies abroad, reflecting how overseas mobilisation is resonating domestically.
Across Iranian society, there are increasing concerns regarding escalating tensions between Tehran and Western powers. By positioning reform and civic engagement as alternatives to conflict, the campaign underscores the divisions within opposition circles regarding the appropriate nature of political change.
The campaign also comes alongside a significant US military buildup in the Middle East, marking the largest concentration of American air power in the region since the 2003 Iraq war.
The initiative also aligns with broader regional appeals for de-escalation. Leaders across the Middle East, including in Turkey and Saudi Arabia, have voiced opposition to a full-scale conflict with Iran, underlining a shared concern about the wider implications of war.
The New Arab, Maghrebi.org
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