As an Iranian refugee, I am deeply troubled by the decision of some Members of Parliament to invite Reza Pahlavi, son of the former Shah of Iran, to speak to Parliamentarians on Monday 30 June. This decision is not only inappropriate, but also deeply insensitive to the lived experiences and historical traumas of many Iranians. 

Reza Pahlavi has openly supported recent military actions against Iran by Israel and the United States —actions that resulted in the deaths of hundreds of Iranian civilians. His supporters publicly celebrated these attacks, adding further pain to an already grieving nation. 

It is important to remember that Reza Pahlavi is the heir to a regime that was overthrown by the Iranian people over 40 years ago. The Shah's rule was marked by political repression, imprisonment, torture, and widespread human rights violations. Inviting Reza Pahlavi to speak to MPs risks appearing to endorse or legitimise a legacy of authoritarianism, as well as his current alignment with foreign-led regime change. 

We urge our Members of Parliament to reconsider and rescind this invitation. It is vital that our democratic institutions reflect the values of justice, peace, and respect for human dignity. 

Please join me in standing in solidarity with the people of Iran. Sign this petition to say no to war, no to foreign intervention, and no to the return of a brutal Western backed regime.