Human rights groups from Kurdish and Azerbaijani communities have vocally condemned a state-backed demonstration in Urmia, which featured anti-Kurdish rhetoric and threats of violence. They have called upon locals, political entities, and civil organisations in Urmia to work together to lower tensions and withstand provocations from the Iranian state and extremist groups.
The official statement, signed by multiple organisations, recounts the events of 18 March, when Kurdish civilians celebrated Newroz with joyous fires and dances, welcoming the new year. Shortly after, on 22 March, a state-organised commemoration for the martyrdom anniversary of the first Shia Imam turned grim, dominated by extremist sentiments that veered into hate speech.
During the demonstration, heavily supported by government officials and police, participants carried club-like weapons and chanted phrases linked to extremist nationalism, alongside banners that expressed blatant anti-Kurdish sentiments. Disturbingly, some protested while openly endorsing sources of authority that had previously incited violence against Kurdish individuals.
In a united front, the human rights organisations denounce all forms of incitement to violence and hatred, asserting their commitment to peaceful coexistence and cultural rights. They stress the need for mutual respect among Urmia’s diverse communities—Azerbaijanis, Kurds, Armenians, Assyrians, and others—working together to resist an exploitation of their differences aimed at fostering tension.
Recalling the horrors of the Naqadeh war in 1979, when many civilians were tragically caught in violence, the statement warns against allowing the Iranian regime, which thrives on division, to incite further conflicts. The organisations urge the people of Urmia and surrounding regions, including political and civil society groups, to stand against such provocations and maintain peace within their multi-ethnic city.
Kurdish and Azerbaijani human rights groups have condemned a state-organised anti-Kurdish demonstration in Urmia that incited violence. They call for unity among local communities to resist provocations from the Iranian state and extremist groups, advocating for peaceful coexistence and mutual respect. The statement reflects concerns about the potential recurrence of violence akin to historical conflicts in the region.
The call for unity among Kurdish and Azerbaijani groups highlights the pressing need to denounce hate and violence in Urmia. By promoting peaceful coexistence, they seek to prevent the escalation of ethnic tensions and the manipulation of grievances by the state. It is a poignant reminder that in diverse societies, mutual respect and collaboration are essential for lasting harmony and security.
Original Source: anfenglish.com
