Statement by Congressman Adam Smith on the Protests in Iran

WASHINGTON, D.C.- U.S. Representative Adam Smith released the following statement regarding the protests in Iran:

"The Iranian regime is violently cracking down on its own people. Security forces are killing protesters, carrying out mass arrests, and attempting to silence dissent through fear and brutality and a state-imposed communications blackout. This is not public order. It is repression.

"For decades, the Iranian regime has failed its people, denying them basic freedoms, economic opportunity, and a voice in their own future. Iranians have made clear that they want dignity, accountability, and the ability to live without fear. The regime's response has been violence and bloodshed.

"The courage of those risking their safety to demand a better future deserves global attention. I stand with the Iranian people and condemn the regime's response to protestors in the strongest terms. The Iranian peoples' voices must not be silenced."