As an Iranian living in New Zealand, I am deeply affected by the ongoing human rights violations in Iran. While I live in safety, many of my fellow Iranians, including friends and family, continue to face violence and repression for demanding basic freedoms. New Zealand stands for human rights and justice, and remaining silent in the face of such crimes contradicts these values. This petition is personal to me because I cannot ignore the suffering of my people and believe New Zealand has a moral responsibility to act.

Iran has been widely criticized for its human rights record, with numerous reports of unlawful imprisonment, torture, and execution of political prisoners and activists. According to Amnesty International, thousands of protestors have been arrested, and many have been sentenced to death in sham trials simply for exercising their right to free expression. Journalists, lawyers, and human rights defenders are frequently harassed and detained, creating an environment of fear and oppression.

In light of these grave violations, it is imperative that New Zealand takes a firm stand to hold Iran accountable. Closing the Iranian Embassy in Wellington and expelling the Iranian Ambassador would send a strong message that New Zealand does not tolerate such egregious breaches of human rights. It is a concrete action that aligns with New Zealand's commitment to uphold international human rights standards.

Moreover, this action would align New Zealand with other nations that have taken similar steps in response to Iran's continued human rights abuses. By joining this effort, New Zealand would reinforce its reputation as a defender of human rights and amplify the international call for justice and reform in Iran.

I urge the New Zealand government to recognize the severity of the situation and to act decisively in support of human rights. Please sign this petition to demand the closure of the Iranian Embassy in Wellington and the expulsion of the Iranian Ambassador until Iran demonstrates a commitment to upholding human rights and ceases its systemic abuse of its citizens.