Iranian communities across New Zealand will rally on Saturday, 28 March, to protest the ongoing internet blackout in Iran and to amplify the voices of millions of Iranians who remain cut off from the outside world by the Islamic Republic regime. The demonstrations aim to raise awareness, call for international action, and express solidarity with those facing repression and isolation inside the country.

Three weeks after the commencement of coordinated military strikes by Israel and the United States targeting the Islamic Republic of Iran’s regime and its security apparatus—including the Basij, the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC), elements of the armed forces, and missile infrastructure—Iran’s nationwide internet blackout has entered its 27th consecutive day, leaving the population digitally isolated.

As the conflict unfolds, many Iranians are gaining a deeper understanding of the structural causes behind long-standing crises shaping their lives. These include severe water depletion; the drying of major rivers such as the Zayandehrood; the repression of environmental experts over the past two decades; and broader environmental degradation that has made large parts of the country increasingly arid. Emerging information on extensive underground missile infrastructure has reinforced perceptions that the regime’s priorities have come at a significant environmental and societal cost.

Human rights conditions remain dire. Civilians—effectively exposed as IRGC forces deploy missile systems within populated areas—face intimidation, arrest, and repression. Executions linked to the January uprisings have resumed, with three young men executed last week. Prison conditions are described as severe, including minimal food provision and constant intimidation.

These developments have intensified public scrutiny of the regime and strengthened demands for political regime change, accountability, and the protection of Iran’s social and environmental foundations.

In response, Iranian communities across New Zealand’s four major cities will gather on Saturday, 28 March, answering Prince Reza Pahlavi’s call for coordinated demonstrations across the global diaspora.

Participants will call on New Zealand and the international community to:

• Prioritise the expressed will of the Iranian people regarding political change in any diplomatic engagement concerning Iran’s future.
• Support transitional political frameworks reflecting the aspirations of Iranians inside and outside the country, including backing Prince Reza Pahlavi as the proposed transitional figure.
• Mobilise urgent efforts to restore internet access in Iran.
• Press for the release of detainees amid reports of inhumane conditions.
• Ensure the protection of civilians and civilian infrastructure while safeguarding Iran’s territorial integrity.

The demonstrations seek not only to raise awareness but to reaffirm solidarity with Iranians enduring repression and isolation. Organisers stress that restoring connectivity, protecting human rights, and supporting a stable and representative future for Iran remain urgent international responsibilities.

Event Details

The rallies will take place on Saturday, 28 March, in:

• Auckland: Aotea Square - 6:00 to 7:00 PM
• Wellington: Wellington Waterfront - 11:00 to 12:00 PM
• Christchurch: Bridge of Remembrance – 4:00 to 5:00 PM
• Dunedin: Octagon - 4:00 to 5:00 PM

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