Monique Ryan (Kooyong, Independent) Share this | Hansard source

For over 40 years the Islamic Republic regime has committed terrorist acts and human rights atrocities against the people of Iran, including shocking instances of gender based violence. The killing of 22-year-old Mahsa Amini in September this year, after being arrested for not wearing the hijab in accordance with government standards, has led to an unprecedented nationwide uprising led largely by women whose dignity and rights have been crushed by this brutal regime. Responding with a brutal crackdown, Islamic Republic authorities have killed hundreds of peaceful demonstrators and injured many more.

In my electorate and my office I have met with many Kooyong constituents of Iranian background who profoundly appreciate their freedom in Australia but fear for their family and friends in Iran. They have called on the Australian government to actively support in every way possible the brave men and women of Iran in their struggle, including the practical actions included in the petition of more than 50,000 signatures presented in the House this morning. These actions will align Australia with other liberal democratic states and enable us to uphold our democratic and human rights values. I support the spirit and the content of this petition and call on the Australian government to implement targeted sanctions and ensure that we are not supporting this brutal regime.

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