By John Q. Hosedrinker 
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called on global leaders to intervene in Iran, urging support for the Iranian people amid widespread protests against the regime. Zelenskyy believes the unrest signals further complications for Russia, emphasizing that the world must seize the opportunity for change. The protests, sparked by economic hardship, have escalated into violence, resulting in numerous casualties and arrests. With the US considering potential responses, both the US Department of State and the Ukrainian Ministry of Foreign Affairs have advised their citizens to evacuate Iran.
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Zelenskyy on Iran Protests: World Must Not Miss Chance for Change
The situation in Iran is, without a doubt, a complex one, and President Zelenskyy understands this. It’s hard to ignore the stark reality: Iran is actively supporting Russia’s war in Ukraine, providing the very drones that rain down destruction on Ukrainian cities. This is a crucial point to acknowledge. The world, specifically Europe, needs to recognize the magnitude of Iran’s actions. While some may cling to the hope of diplomacy, the truth is, Iran’s actions speak louder than any words. It’s a bitter pill to swallow when you consider that the Iranian regime also shot down a Ukrainian passenger plane years ago.
The Ukrainian perspective is clear: they want the Iranian regime gone. This is understandable, given the direct threat Iran poses. The potential for change within Iran is something to be taken seriously. A move towards democracy and moderation would be welcomed. The current Iranian government is a significant source of instability in the Middle East. They are sponsors of militant groups and instigators of chaos. A shift away from that would benefit the entire region, including Ukraine, because it would take away from Russia’s resources and support.
The discussions about what form change should take are very nuanced. Some are wary of the United States’ historical role in the region. There are justified concerns that US involvement could lead to unintended consequences, maybe even returning a former regime, as history tells us. The idea of US interference is a touchy subject, especially in light of past actions and the complexities of the Iranian landscape. The people of Iran are currently facing severe repression and are in a very desperate situation. There is no easy answer.
The call for help from outside actors, is not only coming from the Iranian people. It would be a positive development if the Islamic Republic could be overthrown. The possibility of a new government providing Ukraine with those very same Iranian-made drones against Russia is a powerful, almost poetic, thought. This also means supporting the people fighting for their freedom.
The role of other nations is a delicate one. Some feel it’s the right time for Europe and even the US to step in and offer support, and possibly even the military. This argument is built on the premise that the people need help and have asked for it, and that the stakes are high, with the lives of protestors being on the line. It’s a debate that highlights the tension between principles of non-interference and the moral imperative to assist those suffering under a repressive regime.
However, there are those who urge caution, especially regarding US involvement. They point to past interventions, the history of the US in the region, which has led to negative outcomes in the past. This perspective reminds us that regime change is not the same as building a stable and democratic nation. The path forward has to be about the people.
The irony of the current situation is clear. The Iranian regime’s support for Russia is creating a shared enemy for both Ukraine and those protesting in Iran. Some argue that the US needs to stay out, but recognize that Europe’s response has been slow and hesitant. The reality of the situation is that Iran is providing a military assistance to Russia which is a grave threat to all.
Finally, the hope for the Iranian people is profound, the call for freedom is real, and the potential for a new chapter in Iran’s history is within reach. Zelenskyy knows the world must recognize this moment, and support those who seek change, because the future of Iran, and the broader global landscape, might depend on it.