US, European Union renew calls for Iran to end human rights abuses, condemn violations

US, Europe condemn human rights abuses in Iran

WASHINGTON — The United States and the European Union are calling on Iran to end human rights abuses against its citizens.

In a joint statement Monday, the U.S. and E.U. condemn the large scale detentions, mass trials and denial of the right to peaceful expression following last year’s disputed presidential elections. They say they are particularly concerned about the potential for further violence and repression in the days leading up to Thursday’s anniversary of the Islamic Republic’s founding.

Opposition leaders have called for a fresh round of demonstrations Thursday.

The statement comes amid a report out of Tehran that a former deputy foreign minister has been sentenced to six years in prison for conspiring to “disturb security” and spread propaganda against Iran.