France Cancels Major Iranian Opposition Rally Over Violence Fears

French authorities canceled a large Iranian opposition rally scheduled for June 20 in Paris due to fears of violent attacks. The decision came hours before the event after French security services warned of threats from rival monarchist activists supporting Reza Pahlavi, son of the deposed Shah of Iran. The cancellation highlights deep divisions within the Iranian exile opposition, with competing factions vying to be recognized as the legitimate opposition.

The rally was organized by the National Council of Resistance of Iran (NCRI), the political wing of the Mujahedin-e Khalq (MEK), an organization many consider a terrorist group. Intelligence reports indicated an escalating influence struggle between the MEK and monarchist groups backing Reza Pahlavi. Authorities were particularly alarmed by a prominent monarchist activist who allegedly threatened to block the MEK march and was seen in social media videos holding a gun and firing a 3D-printed weapon.

Additional intelligence warned of threats from individuals using symbols linked to SAVAK, the Shah’s former security service, including possible bomb threats if the demonstration proceeded. The MEK is one of the few opposition groups capable of mobilizing international supporters, including Kurds, Arabs, Balochs, tribal groups, and leftist organizations.

There is also concern that the Iranian regime may have orchestrated some threats through local proxies to disrupt the event. Tehran has long outlawed the NCRI within Iran and regularly condemns its activities abroad, including in Paris, Washington, and Riyadh. The cancellation underscores the fragile and fractious state of the Iranian opposition in exile amid ongoing security risks.