Background Context
I am writing as a concerned resident/citizen about the ongoing crisis in Iran and its impact on Iranians both at home and here in Canada. Recent reports describe an unprecedented bloodshed: “At least 12,000 people have been killed” in Iran’s latest protests, mostly in two days of crackdown during an internet blackout. These figures, confirmed by Iran International (a London-based Persian news outlet), indicate “the largest killing in Iran’s contemporary history”. Even Iranian state sources now acknowledge that Iran’s Supreme Leader directly ordered live fire on demonstrators. (This follows the brutal 2022 repression after Mahsa Amini’s death, when more than 500 protesters were shot and thousands jailed.) We appreciate strong statements by Canada, but they must translate into far tougher action given the regime’s crimes.
At the same time, the Islamic Republic is menacing Iranians here in Canada. Iranian dissidents and activists report harassment and threats, including intimidation and coercion through online campaigns and proxy networks. We are concerned that SEPAH/IRGC and affiliated networks are harassing and threatening Iranian dissidents in Canada and abroad. In short, Tehran’s security forces (Sepah/IRGC) are operating by proxy, intimidating our community and preparing the ground for attacks.
We urge you to press the Government of Canada for immediate action:
Your Demands
Declare SEPAH/IRGC a Terrorist Organisation and fully enforce it. Canada must ensure SEPAH/IRGC is treated as a terrorist threat in practice, not only in words — including enforcement against facilitators, funders, and front entities operating in Canada.
Intensify Sanctions & Asset Freezes. Use Canada’s sanctions tools to the full: target IRGC commanders and affiliated entities, freeze assets linked to the IRGC/SEPAH and regime networks in Canada, and sanction banks or companies that facilitate Iran’s funding of violence. Canada must not become a safe haven for Tehran’s enablers.
Ensure Police Protection and Investigation. Public Safety Canada and law enforcement must treat threats against Iranian dissidents as a matter of public safety and national security. We ask for a clear assurance that Iranian-Canadians who are openly threatened will receive full protection, and that credible reports of intimidation by foreign agents or proxies will be thoroughly investigated.
Create Safe & Legal Routes for Refuge. Advocate the creation of humanitarian visas or resettlement schemes for vulnerable Iranians whose lives are at risk. Canada should offer expedited protection for activists, journalists, and especially women and minorities who face execution in Iran.
Stop Negotiating with the Islamic Regime. Press the Government of Canada to withhold any new deals or talks with the regime while it continues mass repression. At a minimum, demand an immediate end to executions and live fire, and support credible international investigations before any further engagement.
Lead International Pressure. Use Canada’s influence with allies and in the UN to isolate the regime and hold it accountable, including for transnational repression targeting people in Canada.
The evidence is overwhelming and the threat real: Iranians in Canada now live under the shadow of Tehran’s security services. We cannot afford complacency. By targeting IRGC/SEPAH networks, freezing assets, and safeguarding our community, Canada would uphold its values and protect innocent lives. We respectfully ask for your urgent support including raising this issue in Parliament and pressing the relevant ministers so that Canada’s response matches the gravity of the situation.
Thank you for your attention to this critical matter. We look forward to your leadership in defending human rights and the safety of Iranian-Canadians.
Yours sincerely,